Brunhilda of Austrasia (c. 543-613) was a Visigothic princess who married into the Merovingian dynasty of the Franks, becoming the queen consort of the eastern kingdom of Austrasia. Following the brutal death of her sister due to a plot by Queen Fredegund in Neustria, Brunhilda used her position to scheme and accumulate power to outmaneuver her rival. The feud would expand into proxy wars across the Frankish realm.
More about: Brunhilda of AustrasiaDefinition
Timeline
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c. 543 - 613Life of Brunhilda of Austrasia.
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567Brunhilda of Austrasia is married to King Sigebert I.
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575Brunhilda of Austrasia becomes regent for her young son, Childebert II.
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584Childebert II reaches the age of maturity, but Brunhilda of Austrasia still maintains her power behind the scenes.
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593Battle of Droizy. Brunhilda of Austrasia is defeated by Fredegund's Neustrian forces.
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596Childebert II dies. Brunhilda of Austrasia becomes regent for her two grandsons, Theudebert II and Theuderic II.
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613Chlothar II defeates Brunhilda of Austrasia's forces in battle. Brunhilda is executed.
