1. The Middle Ages in Europe

2. The Middle Ages
The period of time from the fall of the Roman Empire in 476 A.D. to the 1400s was called the Middle Ages, often called the Medieval Times.
It was the time between ancient and modern times, a time of knights and damsels in distress.
In Western Europe there was a lack of a powerful central government after Rome was overrun by the barbarians.

3. The Rise of the Franks
The Franks built the largest of the barbarian empires in the area known as Gaul, (aka France).
Charles Martel
helped unite the Franks by defeating Muslim invaders
Martel’s victory over the Muslims at the Battle of Tours in 731 A.D, saved Christianity in Europe.
Pepin
Charles Martel’s son, gained control of northern Italy,
but Pepin is more famous for his son Charlemagne.

4. Charlemagne Became king of the Franks in 768 A.D..
Name literally means “Charles the Great”
Developed the feudal system by giving land to his nobles in return for their loyalty & services.
Enlarged the Kingdom of the Franks.
Wanted to educate the children of his kingdom.
Crowned “Emperor of the Holy Roman Empire”

5. Europe Faces New Threats
After Charlemagne’s death his empire was divided.
The authority Charlemagne had exhibited disappeared.
The empire began to crumble under attacks by:
barbarian invaders from the east.
Muslims invaders from north Africa.
Vikings from Scandinavia

6. The Vikings
Vikings from Scandinavia launched fear and destruction on northern Europe.
They used their sailing skills to established trade route and create new settlements.

7. Changes in Europe
The invasions by the Vikings and other barbarians brought many negative changes.
There was a lack of a strong central leadership as governments were abandoned.
Trade and cultural interactions decreased as people became too fearful to travel.
Cities decreased in size and importance as its citizens were killed or moved to the country to avoid the invasions.
Education, skills, and artistic abilities diminished.