1-156-816 - Ann Ronan Picture Library/Heritage-Images

Charlemagne, King of the Franks, accepting the submission of the Saxons, 777 (19th century). Charlemagne (741-814) became King of the Franks in 768, jointly with his brother Carloman. After the latter's death in 771, Charlemagne set about a campaign to conquer and convert neigbouring kingdoms to Christianity. He fought the Saxons for many years, finally overcoming them in 804. After restoring Leo III to the Papacy in 800, Charlemagne was crowned Emperor, marking the beginning of the Holy Roman Empire.