Arnulf of Carinthia

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.