776 Charlemagne makes his son Pepin king of Italy.
777 The Saxons are apparently subdued after two campaigns. At Paderborn Charlemagne receives their homage. Large numbers of them are baptised. Charles visits Spain to receive homage.
778 On the return from Spain the rear guard under command of Roland is attacked at Roncesvalles and Roland slain. The Saxons, aided by the Danes, break out in revolt.
779 Charlemagne again subdues the Saxons, but as soon as he leaves the country they rebel.
782 Great massacre of the Saxons at Verdun.
785 The Saxons again quieted. Conversion of Wittikind, the leader, and his followers. Germany becomes Christian.
788 Bavaria incorporated in Charlemagne’s dominions.
791-798 Campaigns against the Avars ending in their conquest. Pannonia added to the kingdom. The Danes, Wends, and Czechs also become subjects. The duke of Benevento is obliged to give homage. Charles’ rule extends from the Eider to Sicily and from the Ebro to the Theiss. Fresh revolts among the Saxons.
799 Pope Leo III expelled from Rome seeks Charlemagne’s camp at Paderborn. The king restores him to Rome.