European civilizations in the Early Middle Ages (750-1000) stemmed from the fall of the Roman Empire. The establishment of the Germanic states (which was a result of Roman disintegration) brought together the three main components of a new European civilization. The combination of the German tribes, the classical tradition, and Christianity aided in creating a western empire with its own European identity. The Carolingian empire, ruled by Charles the Great (Charlemagne), was the first sign of the medieval European world. To better understand the Early Middle Ages and beyond, one should examine the origins, development, accomplishments, and significance of the Carolingians in medieval European history (Spielvogel, 210).
             The Carolingian empire originated from a man by the name of Charles Martel. Martel served as mayor of the palace of Austrasia, one of the three major areas controlled by the Merovingian dynasty, around 714. By defeating the Muslims near Poitiers, Charles Martel became the ruler of the three Merovingian kingdoms, placing his family on the edge of creating a new dynasty. After Charles Martel's death in 741, his son Pepin overthrew the Merovingians and assumed the kingship for himself. Pepin was crowned king and ruled the Frankish state until his death in 768. This brought Pepins son, Charles the Great (Charlemagne), to the throne of the Frankish kingdom. Charlemagne was a vigorous and powerful ruler that greatly extended the region of the Carolingian empire (Spielvogel, 210).
             Charles the Great aided in the development of his empire by playing a large role in the expansion of the Carolingian kingdom. Charlemagne led his army to Italy in 773 and took control of the Lombard state. Four years beyond the conquest of Italy, Charlemagne and his army moved into northern Spain, but failed to conquer any territory. Charlemagne was more successful in Germany in 787 when he brought the Bavarians into his empire....