The student of history has need of divisions. By their aid alone can he hope to have command of the facts and events with which history in so large part deals. It is well therefore to begin the study of any particular history by noting such changes, such epoch-making events as may form partition walls of boxes in which may be placed our classified information.
The history of Germany has been variously divided into periods by the different authors. That which we have adopted here has the sanction of the majority and will be found exceedingly natural, and hence simple and convenient. The student should memorize it thoroughly, being assured that though a very general history of itself, nevertheless it is more than many of supposed information could tell of the history of this wonderful people.
DIVISION OF THE HISTORY OF THE GERMANS INTO TEN PERIODS.
First—From the most ancient times to the conquests of the Franks, under Clovis (A. D. 486).
Second—From conquests of Clovis to Charlemagne (511-768).
Third—Charlemagne to Henry I. (768-919).
Fourth—Henry I. to Rodolphus of Hapsburg. The Saxon, Swabian, and Hohenstaufen houses (919-1273).
Fifth—Rodolphus I. of Hapsburg to Charles V. (1273-1520).
Sixth—Charles V. to Peace of Westphalia (1519-1648).
Seventh—Peace of Westphalia to French Revolution (1648-1789).