893: The Anointing of Charles the Simple

Odo’s election in 888 does not erase the Carolingian dynasty. For part of the elites, the crown must remain tied to Charlemagne’s inheritance. This tension leads to a major fact: the existence of a rival king.

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✝️ Reims, 28 January 893

On 28 January 893, Charles the Simple is anointed at Reims. The act is a direct challenge to Robertian monarchy: it provides a rallying point for those who refuse a non‑Carolingian king.

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⚖️ Two kings, one kingdom

From 893 onward, the question is not only “who is right”, but “who can govern”:

• hold regions and counts;
• obtain bishops’ support;
• protect against Vikings.

Kingship becomes a balance of forces, where election and effectiveness compete with dynastic legitimacy.

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🧠 Key takeaways

• 893 opens a decade of political competition in West Francia.
• Carolingian kingship remains a powerful reference.
• Real power depends on alliances more than on a single succession principle.