1. Chapter 7 – The Rise of Europe
Section 1
Pages

2. Middle Ages – 500 to 1500
A period after the collapse of the Roman Empire in which Europe experienced invasions creating a blend of Greco-Roman, Germanic and Christian civilizations. The culture was known as medieval.

3. Germanic Kingdoms
Franks – a. Mostly farmers and herders that lived in small communities.
b. Kings were elected by tribal councils.
c. Warriors swore loyalty to the king in exchange for weapons and a share of the conquered people.
King Clovis - conquered Gaul in 486 (modern day France). Converted to Christianity and created an ally in the pope.
Battle of Tours (732) - Battle between the Christian Franks, led by Charles Martel, and the Muslims. Christians saw it as a sign God was on their side.

4. Charlemagne (768) – the grandson of Charles Martel became King of the Franks and expanded the empire into France, Germany and part of Italy. Reigned for 46 years. (pg. 215)
Emperor of the Romans- Pope Leo III asked Charlemagne for help against rebels and in return crowned him Emperor of the Romans.
1. Revived the idea of one Christian community – Christendom.
2. Create future power struggles between popes and Germanic emperors.
3. Outraged the emperor of the Eastern Roman empire. Created a split.

5. Acts of Charlemagne
Missi dominici – officials sent by Charlemagne to control provincial leaders. Allowed to administer punishment.
Required his officials to keep accurate written records.
Revived Latin learning and created local schools.
Charlemagne’s Legacy
Spread Christianity
Set up a strong, efficient government
Blended Germanic, Roman and Christian traditions

6. Treaty of Verdun – Charlemagne’s grandsons divided the empire into three regions.
The regions continued to be attacked by Muslims and the Magyars, a nomadic group that settled in present day Hungary. (Map page 217)
Vikings – independent farmers from Norway, Sweden and Denmark who were ruled by land-owning chieftans. As expert sailors they raided the coast of Europe. Around 100, they set up a colony in North America.