The history of Germany may now for half a century be ranged about the
central figure, Charles the Great, more commonly called Charlemagne.
Indeed, so conspicuous a figure is he that it is impossible for all
subsequent history to lose sight of him. The decayed Merovingian scepter
when it fell into his hands was swayed with such unprecedented vigor
and ability that its old name soon disappeared, and henceforth it is
the Carlovingian, and Charles becomes the head and founder of a new
dynasty. The first years of his rule are marked by continuous wars of
conquest. The brave and savage Saxons resisted him and the Christianity
which he championed until compelled by his all-conquering arms to yield.
Saxony emerged from his hands subdued and Christian, divided into eight
bishopries, studded with new cities and abbeys which proved centers of
civilization; and that wild country, until then barbarous and pagan,
entered into communion with the rest of the empire.
He next turned his attention to Italy, where his career of victory was
uninterrupted. He visited Rome, and, dismounting at a thousand paces from
the walls, walked in procession to the church of St. Peter on the Vatican
Hill, kissing the steps as he ascended in honor of the saints by whom
they had been trodden. In the vestibule of the church he was received
by the Pope, who embraced him with great affection, the choir chanting
the psalm, “Blessed is he who cometh in the name of the Lord.” Then they
descended into the vaults, and offered up their prayers together at the
shrine of St. Peter.[E]