Charlemagne is one of the most important figures of the Middle Ages. He ruled from 768 to 814 as king of the Franks, and became Roman Emperor in 800. He conquered peoples, built institutions and completely changed Europe's political trajectory. One cannot stress enough the importance of his reign and his legacy. I think you will find him a complex and fascinating character. And maybe, you will also recognize some of him and what he accomplished in yourself or in your daily life. Listen to Grand Dukes of the West podcast! Beautiful "La Fayette, We Are Here!" merchandise is available on TeePublic. Timecodes: Introduction 04:03 - Charlemagne's Grand-Father and Father 10:52 - Charles, King of the Franks 16:20 -  Becoming Roman Emperor 22:04 -  The Carolingian Renaissance 27:01 - Charles the Great's Legacy 32:20 - Conclusion Music: Marche pour la cérémonie des Turcs, composed by Jean-Baptiste Lully, arranged and performed by Jérôme Arfouche. Art: Charlemagne by Albrecht Dürer Support the show