What is Charlemagne's most significant influence on Western civilization?

Charlemagne's most significant influence on Western civilization lies in the relationship between church and state. As a ruler who united much of Western Europe during the early Middle Ages, Charlemagne recognized the power and influence of the Christian Church, particularly the Roman Catholic Church, and aligned his authority with religious legitimacy.

By being crowned Emperor of the Romans by Pope Leo III in 800 AD, he established a precedent for the close relationship between the papacy and secular rulers, which shaped the political landscape of medieval Europe. This alliance allowed for the Church to play a central role in governance and societal order, leading to the integration of Christian doctrine into law and public life. Charlemagne’s policies promoted the spread of Christianity, the establishment of monastic schools, and the preservation of classical learning, all while reinforcing the power of the church in political matters. This dynamic significantly influenced the structure of medieval society and the development of later European political thought regarding the interplay between religious and governmental authority.