West Francia: the kingdom
Jean Dunbabin
The tenth century was crucial in the evolution of west Frankish kingdom. Whereas 898 its future uncertain, with either reabsorption into a larger empire or disintegration smaller units clearly possible, by it firmly on map, albeit ill-defined frontiers and debatable political character. In 898, wind seemed set fair for Charles Simple. If victory at Chartres did not put an end to invasions soil, create substantial breathing space. Immediately determined exploit this attempting reverse 880 restoration Lotharingia east crown. realm riven Carolingian pretensions Lotharingia. Thereupon council aristocrats, guided Adalbero Rheims, rejected claims throne, elected Hugh Capet. Any history kingdom inevitably highlights king's relations his princes.
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