Arnulf of Carinthia vs Daniel of Galicia

Arnulf played a key role in the deposition of his uncle, Charles the Fat, in 887. As the illegitimate son of Carloman, Arnulf was elected King of East Francia by the nobles, ending the unified Carolingian rule and establishing his own dynasty.

Arnulf of Carinthia led an East Frankish army to victory against Viking raiders at the Battle of the Dyle in present-day Belgium. This victory halted Viking incursions into East Francia and demonstrated Arnulf's military capability, boosting his prestige.

Arnulf allied with the Magyars (Hungarians) against the Moravian Empire, inviting them into Central Europe. This decision backfired, as the Magyars later turned on East Francia, launching devastating raids. Arnulf's short-term strategy had long-term negative consequences.

Arnulf was crowned Holy Roman Emperor by Pope Formosus on February 22, 896, in Rome. He had marched into Italy to support the pope against rival factions. His coronation was brief, as he suffered a stroke soon after and returned to East Francia.

Arnulf died on December 8, 899, likely from a stroke. He was succeeded by his young son, Louis the Child, whose weak rule led to further fragmentation and vulnerability to Magyar attacks. Arnulf's reign was marked by military successes but also strategic errors.

Daniel of Galicia ruled the Principality of Galicia-Volhynia when the Mongols invaded. He initially resisted but was forced to submit to Mongol suzerainty after the destruction of Kyiv in 1240. Daniel's submission preserved his realm from total destruction, but he became a vassal of the Golden Horde, paying tribute and providing troops.

Daniel accepted a royal crown from Pope Innocent IV in exchange for promising to promote church union with Rome and organize a crusade against the Mongols. He was crowned King of Galicia-Volhynia in Dorohychyn. This coronation elevated his status and sought Western support against the Mongols, but the promised crusade never materialized.

Daniel launched a military campaign against the Mongol forces in Podolia and Volhynia, achieving some initial successes. He recaptured several towns from Mongol control. However, the campaign ultimately failed due to lack of Western support and Mongol reinforcements. Daniel was forced to reaffirm his vassalage to the Golden Horde.

Daniel founded the city of Lviv (Lw