Question 1

What was the Merovingian Dynasty?

Accepted Answer

The Merovingian Dynasty (c. 481-751) was a ruling family of the Franks, whose members are sometimes considered the first kings of France. The Merovingian kingdom became the most powerful of the "barbarian" successor states to follow the fall of the Western Roman Empire.

Question 2

Why did the Merovingian Dynasty collapse?

Accepted Answer

The collapse of the Merovingian Dynasty can be attributed to constant infighting and rivalry between its members, and also to the rise of the aristocracy and the mayors of the palace. The mayors were eventually able to reduce the power of the Merovingian kings before ultimately deposing them in 751.

Question 3

What was the Merovingian Dynasty known for?

Accepted Answer

Members of the Merovingian Dynasty were known for their long hair, which symbolized their right to rule, as well as for their ruthlessness and infighting. The dynasty was known for the practice of hoisting new kings up on a shield and for the consistent use of certain names like Chilperic, Childebert, and Clovis, to foster a sense of heredity and political continuity.

Question 4

Who are some Merovingian kings?

Accepted Answer

Some of the most notable kings of the Merovingian Dynasty include Clovis I (r. 481-511), who first united the Franks and converted to Christianity; Saint Guntram I (r. 561-592), who guided the dynasty through a precarious time; and Dagobert I (r. 623-639), who ruled at the height of Merovingian power.

Question 5

Was Charlemagne a Merovingian?

Accepted Answer

Charlemagne was not a Merovingian, but rather a member of the Carolingian Dynasty. The Carolingians were the dynasty that supplanted the Merovingians as rulers of Francia.

Merovingian Dynasty

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