Crisis of the Carolingians - The Early Middle Ages, 284-1000

Explore the decline of Charlemagne's empire in this 46-minute lecture from Yale University. Delve into the external threats, particularly Viking invasions, and internal causes that led to the collapse of the Carolingian Empire. Examine how the lack of strong social infrastructure and loyalty to rulers allowed government servants to seek hereditary positions and nobles to establish independent kingdoms. Discover how the short-lived Carolingian Empire shaped Europe, especially through the Treaty of Verdun's partitions that created territories resembling modern France and Germany. Learn about the end of Charlemagne's rule, the problems faced by his empire, the reign of Louis the Pious, and the consequences of the Treaty of Verdun. Conclude with an analysis of the dissolution of Carolingian authority and its lasting impact on European history.