He was king of the Franks and emperor of the Roman Empire.

He fought for 40 years with volunteer soldiers who had a right to the spoils. Thus he was able to extend his power in western and central Europe. He unified the Germanic, Roman and Christian traditions that became the forerunner for European civilization. Thus he was given the nickname ‘Light of the Middle Ages’.

He was born in Aachen, Germany in 742. His father managed to become king of the Franks through wars, expanding the lands of his kingdom into areas of France, Belgium, Switzerland, the Netherlands, Hungary, Bosnia, Spain and Germany.

Charlemagne followed his father on these campaigns from a young age.

His father died in 768, and the kingdom was taken over by Charlemagne and his brother Carloman. 3 years later the latter also died, leaving only Charlemagne as leader.

The peoples he conquered had to convert to Christianity or be executed.

In 800 AD there began to be a threat from the Vikings, Byzantium and the Arabs as a result of which he was forced to stop his expansion and concentrate on defense.

He had 18 children with various women.

He died in 814.

[Source: http://www.mixanitouxronou.gr]