Ancient Civilizations: The Franks

The Franks emerged during the decline of one of the world's most illustrious civilizations. Caught up in the winds of change, they fought both for and against the dying giant of the Roman Empire. The Franks were the cultural descendants of the ancient Gauls, who had long been a bogeyman to the Romans; after the collapse of Rome, they would endure as the living embodiment of ancient Rome.Through the Franks, the traditions and culture of the Roman Empire would continue during the Dark Ages, when all was lost to the ravages of barbarism in that period of time.Through the Franks, Rome would be re-consecrated under the auspices of Charlemagne and the creation of the Holy Roman Empire.The Franks would enter the historical record as one of many barbarian groups, and would evolve into one of the mightiest powers in Europe. It would be the legacy of the Franks that tore Europe apart during the First and Second World War, and it would be the legacy of the Franks that still divides many European nations. From antiquity to modern day, the Franks have had a profound impact on the shaping of the Western World.