Rise of the Merovingians and Carolingians
The Merovingians rose in the 5th century. They were the first ruling dynasty of the Franks. Their power came after the fall of Rome. Kings like Clovis I united Frankish tribes and spread Christianity.
By the 8th century, the Carolingians replaced them. Charles Martel gained fame by stopping Muslim expansion at the Battle of Tours in 732. His grandson, Charlemagne, expanded the empire across Western Europe.
Charlemagne was crowned Emperor in 800. This marked the revival of the Western Roman Empire. The Carolingians built strong administration and promoted learning. Their rule shaped medieval Europe.
In short, the Merovingians laid the foundation of Frankish rule. The Carolingians transformed it into a powerful empire.