Clovis I

Reign: 481 – 511
Life: 466–511

He is considered the founder of the Merovingian dynasty, which ruled the Frankish kingdom for the next two centuries. At the Battle of Soissons (486), he established control over a rump state of the fragmenting Western Roman Empire, which was under the command of Syagrius. By the time of his death in 511, Clovis had conquered several smaller Frankish kingdoms in the northeast of Gaul, stretching into what is now Germany. Clovis also conquered the Alemanni in eastern Gaul and the Visigothic kingdom of Aquitania in the southwest. These campaigns added significantly to his Frankish domains and established his dynasty as a major political and military presence in western Europe. Clovis is also significant because of his baptism between 498 and 506, largely at the behest of his wife, Clotilde, who would later be venerated as a saint for this act, celebrated today in both the Catholic Church and Eastern Orthodox Church.

During Clovis I's reign, Ariadne ruled Rome, Emperor Xiaowen of Northern Wei ruled China, and Pope Symmachus ruled Papacy.

Want to learn more? Further reading

The Franks by Edward James

Some book links on this site point to Amazon. As an Amazon Associate, WhoWasRuling.com may earn from qualifying purchases.

The World During Their Reign

The most notable rulers who held power elsewhere at the same time, from European courts to Ottoman, Mughal, and Chinese thrones.

Meanwhile in history

One “meanwhile in history” story each week: who ruled where, and what was happening on thrones across the world.

By subscribing you agree to receive emails from us. See our Privacy Policy. Unsubscribe any time.

From the library

Go deeper on Clovis I

Hand-picked histories and biographies for readers who want more than the timeline: the same era, told in full.

The Franks

Edward James

The best introduction to Clovis and the Merovingian world that preceded Charlemagne.

Find this book on Amazon