Charles The Great, also known as Charlemagne, was a medieval ruler who became King of the Franks in 768 and later crowned Emperor of the Romans in 800. He is known for uniting much of Western Europe during the early Middle Ages, laying the foundations for modern France and Germany. Charlemagne was a strong supporter of education and culture, promoting the Carolingian Renaissance, which revived art, literature, and learning. His reign marked significant advancements in governance and administration, and he is often remembered as a pivotal figure in European history, influencing the development of the continent for centuries.