Money in its political context
Rory Naismith
Far away from Anglo-Saxon England, at the same time as Offa of Mercia’s rule was its height in 787, one few other rulers western Europe to have largely escaped Charlemagne’s conquests met his death. Arichis II (758–87), duke Benevento, had begun political career protégé and son-in-law Desiderius (757–74), last king Lombards. After Desiderius’ defeat deposition by Charlemagne 774 assumed title prince (princeps) Lombards, spent rest reign conspiring expand large south Italian duchy resist Franks. Eventually, however, he backed into a corner forced make concessions when himself came Italy 786. In year life managed stave off Frankish army sending money offering up two sons hostages. A magnanimous accepted only younger son even Arichis’ condition submission Carolingian overlordship: that should not return impose authority person.
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