Childeric, King of the Franks

CHILDERICO, king of the FRANKS. — Son of Meroveo, he died around 481 at Tournai. While still very young, he set out to subjugate the other barbarian peoples settled in Aquitania and Belgica, whose power obstructed the Franks Salii’s drive for supremacy. To carry out his plans of conquest, he allied himself with Egidio, a Roman commander, and with his help defeated the Visigoths at Orléans in 463. Subsequently, he incorporated into his own forces those of the Roman Ezio and achieved the brilliant victory of Angers against the Avars in 469. In addition to excellent military qualities, C. displayed considerable ability as a statesman. He was tolerant toward Christians, despite resisting the insistence of his wife Basina, who urged him toward Catholicism.