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How did Charlemagne use land grants to support his army?
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Charlemagne
Charlemagne, oil on limewood by Albrecht DĆ¼rer, 1512; in the collection of the German National Museum, NĆ¼rnberg, Germany.
Charlemagne maintained his military establishment, particularly his armored cavalry, by providing his subjects with sources of income that allowed them to serve at their own expense. This was primarily achieved through the use of land grants.1
By establishing personal ties with powerful figures, Charlemagne accepted them as royal vassals in exchange for benefices, which included land grants and offices. These grants were intended to be exploited for the vassals' personal benefit as long as they remained loyal to the king. This system helped Charlemagne secure the necessary resources to sustain his army, as all freemen were otherwise obligated to serve in the military at their own personal expense when summoned.1