Chilperic I

Chilperic I invaded Austrasia, triggering a civil war with his brother Sigebert I. The conflict involved shifting alliances and battles across Neustria and Austrasia, including the siege of Tournai. It ended inconclusively with Sigebert's assassination.

Chilperic I's wife Fredegund is believed to have orchestrated the assassination of Sigebert I, king of Austrasia and Chilperic's brother. Sigebert was stabbed with poisoned daggers at Vitry-en-Artois, ending the conflict between Neustria and Austrasia temporarily.

Chilperic I attempted to impose new taxes on church lands and property, leading to conflict with bishops, particularly Gregory of Tours. The reforms were resisted and eventually abandoned after widespread opposition and ecclesiastical condemnation.

Chilperic I ordered the construction of a circus (hippodrome) in Soissons, imitating Roman spectacles. This project reflected his interest in Roman culture and his desire to project imperial authority, though it was criticized by contemporaries like Gregory of Tours.