The Franks

The Franks were Germanic tribes who lived along the middle and lower Rhine River. As the Roman Empire lost control of Gaul, the Franks rose to power and founded dynasties and cultures that became the basis for modern Europe, particularly France and Germany.

Early History

In the 400s, Roman armies struggled to defend Gaul from Hun and Vandal invaders along the Rhine River. Some Franks served in the Roman army during this time. As the Roman Empire collapsed in western Europe, Frankish warriors claimed parts of it and established their own small kingdoms.