My family tree through the ages
This article explores the author’s lineage tracing back to Charlemagne, the first Holy Roman Emperor after the Roman Empire’s collapse. Charlemagne, born in Aachen, was renowned for his conquests and cultural contributions, despite being illiterate. His death in 814 led to the crumble of his empire due to succession disputes.
Louis was the Emperor of the West following the Wars of Carolingian Succession. The ‘West’ refers to the western segment of Charlemagne’s empire and maps to most of modern-day France.
My ancestor, Gerard d’Auvergne, died at the Battle of Fontenoy on 25 June 841. Historians describe this critical battle as one of the most traumatic experiences of the ninth century. The result of this war has influenced European affairs up till today.