why was it important for charlemagne to have the catholic pope on his side
It was important for Charlemagne to have the Catholic Pope on his side for several reasons:
1. Legitimacy and Divine Right: Charlemagne wanted to establish himself as the legitimate ruler of the Carolingian Empire and assert his divine right to rule. By having the Pope's support, he could strengthen his claim to the throne and gain religious legitimacy, as the Pope was seen as the highest spiritual authority.
2. Consolidation of Power: Charlemagne aimed to consolidate his power and centralize his empire. The support of the Pope was crucial in achieving this, as the Pope held significant influence over the clergy and the Christian faithful. Aligning with the Pope helped Charlemagne to establish and maintain control over the Church, which held considerable economic and political power at the time.
3. Education and Cultural Rebirth: Charlemagne was a patron of learning and sought to revive education and culture in his empire. He recognized the importance of the Church in preserving knowledge and promoting education. By being in good standing with the Pope, Charlemagne could ensure the cooperation of the Church in spreading education, promoting literacy, and supporting cultural rebirth, particularly through the Carolingian Renaissance.
4. Imperial Coronation: In 800 CE, Pope Leo III crowned Charlemagne as the Holy Roman Emperor, reviving the title that had been dormant since the fall of the Western Roman Empire. This coronation not only enhanced Charlemagne's prestige and power but also forged a strong bond between him and the Pope in the eyes of the people. It solidified their partnership and made the Pope a significant supporter and ally of the Carolingian Empire.
Overall, by having the Catholic Pope on his side, Charlemagne strengthened his legitimacy, consolidated his power, gained access to the Church's resources, and fostered intellectual and cultural rebirth within his empire.