Pepin the Short was a Frankish king who ruled from 751 to 768 AD. He was the son of Charles Martel and the first king of the Carolingian dynasty. Pepin is known for his role in strengthening the Frankish kingdom and for his alliance with the Pope, which helped legitimize his rule. During his reign, Pepin expanded his territory through military campaigns and established the Papal States by donating land to the church. His reign set the foundation for his son, Charlemagne, who would later become one of the most significant rulers in European history.