869–870: Metz and Meerssen (Lotharingia)

Lotharingia (born from Middle Francia) becomes, after Verdun, a hinge space: a corridor of borders, a stake of prestige, and a zone of rivalry between West and East Francia.

---

👑 869: Charles, king of Lotharingia

After Lothair II dies, Charles the Bald has himself recognised in Lotharingia. On 9 September 869, he is crowned at Metz, with the support of Hincmar of Reims. Local clergy and some lay great men emphasise the idea of elite consent in Lotharingia, and Charles must make commitments toward his new subjects.

The episode highlights a major point: in the 9th century, sovereignty is built through rituals (coronation), but also through political promises and alliances.

---

📜 870: Meerssen, a partition between brothers

The takeover is contested. Louis the German intervenes, and in August 870, the Treaty of Meerssen forces Charles to cede part of Lotharingia.

The frontier then follows natural and political markers (including the Moselle), fixing a durable separation between West and East. The treaty also grants Charles a share north of the kingdom of Provence, within a complex game of Carolingian inheritances.

---

🧠 Key takeaways

• Lotharingia is a central border space after Verdun.
• Metz (869) shows conquest legitimised by coronation and commitments.
• Meerssen (870) stabilises a partition, but installs a durable rivalry between West and East.