Clovis I (or Chlodovech, 466-511/513 CE), king of the Franks, is considered the founding father of the Merovingian Dynasty, which would continue for over 200 years. Clovis became king at the age of 15, and by the time of his death 30 years later, he had become the first king to rule over all the Frankish tribes, a firm ally of the Byzantine Empire, and a Christian king. Clovis' policies, and military brilliance, consolidated the regions of Gaul under his rule and, today, he is considered the founder of France.
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Definition
Timeline
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486 CEClovis I of the Franks defeats the Romans in Gaul. Founding of the Frankish kingdom.
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503 CEClovis I converts to Christianity.
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507 CEClovis defeats the Visigoths and drives them into the Iberian peninsula.
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507 CEByzantine emperor Anastasios I sends Clovis I, the king of the Franks in Gaul, a fleet to aid his war with the Ostrogoths.
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511 CEDeath of Clovis, founder of the Merovingian dynasty.
