Unit: Medieval Europe
Lesson Title:
The Franks Build an Empire
(See textbook pages 237 – 239)
As Christianity was spreading into northern Europe in
the 480s, a powerful group called the Franks conquered
Gaul (the region we call France).
Under a ruler named Clovis, the Franks became Christian
and created one of the strongest kingdoms in Europe.
In the 700s, the Franks’ power would become even
greater under their leader, Charlemagne.
Charlemagne was a brilliant warrior who led the Franks
in building an empire.
At the height of Charlemagne’s empire, he had
conquered all of modern day France, Germany, Austria,
Italy and northern Spain.
Charlemagne had also conquered part of the Roman
Empire. For this reason, and because he was Christian
and needed the support of his army, Pope Leo III
crowned him “Holy Roman Emperor.”
Do you think having the pope on his side also
helped Charlemagne? Why or why not?
Charlemagne ruled for over 40 years, and unified
much of Europe.
He was also an admirer of education, although he
struggled to learn how to read and write. He built
schools across Europe and gathered great scholars in
Aachen—his capital (located in modern Germany).
Charlemagne’s empire even survived many barbarian
attacks. But after his death in 814, the empire fell
apart quickly.
In class reading activity
Read “Invaders Threaten Europe” (page 237-238).
Answer these questions:
1. Of the groups that invaded Europe in the 700s and
800s, which was the most feared?
2. Look at the map on page 238. Which group invaded
the most areas?
3. What damage did the invasions cause?
Right Side Notebook Activity
Who was Charlemagne?
Read page 237 & 239. Create a bio-poem for Charlemagne.
Line 1. Name
2. Three traits
3. He is from….
4. He cares deeply about…
5. He is important because…
6. Three traits
7. He fears…
8. He would like to see…
9. He is remembered for…
10. Name, years of life (birth-death)