Charles Martel

Charles Martel reigned from 718 until his death in 741 AD, his predecessor was his father Pepin of Herstal and his mother was a noblewoman named Alpaida. In his life Charles Martel was only defeated once in a battle on account of a lack of men, but after that he had a winning streak that lasted until his death. As prince of the Franks and Mayor of the Palace, and also a military leader, Charles had many responsibilities. He continued building on his father’s work and restored centralized government in Francia. He also fought a series of wars that made the Franks the rulers of the entire region of Goul. Charles used three famous battle tactics, first Attack when least expected second Attack how least expected third Attack where least expected. Charles Martel is considered to be a founding figure of the European Middle Ages, as he was skilled as an administrator and as a warrior. Charles, a great patron Saint Boniface made the first attempt at reconciliation between the Franks and the papacy. Pope Gregory III, whose realm was being menaced by the lombards, wished Charles to become defender of the Holy see and offered him the Roman counsulship, though Charles declined.

Later in life Charles Martel divided his kingdom between his sons Carloman and Pepin, which began the Carolingian Empire. Charles was a significant leader and warrior and there are many things we can learn from him, particularly that a versatile strategy can be applied not just in battle but in other ways, as it reminds me of hunting, when you stalk something you want to appear when your prey is oblivious to your presence and in a place that it does not notice you and finally you want to bring it down in a way that it does not expect. Another thing that we can learn from Charles Martel is that we do not have to jump at every opportunity that comes our way, like how he declined the offer to become defender of the Holy See, which would have been an honour for him. Two key elements Charles teaches us is patience and restraint, that help us have success in our daily lives because they are of God.