Pepin the Short was a king of the Franks who ruled from 751 to 768 AD. He was the son of Charles Martel, a prominent military leader known for his victory at the Battle of Tours. Pepin is notable for being the first king of the Carolingian dynasty, which would later include his famous son, Charlemagne. During his reign, Pepin strengthened the Frankish kingdom and established a close alliance with the Papal States. He is known for his military campaigns against the Lombards in Italy, which helped to protect the Pope and solidify his power. Pepin's rule marked the beginning of a significant era in European history.