Why did Charlemagne require his free subjects to swear loyalty oaths?

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Painting by Albrecht Durer of Charlemagne in ornate coronation robes and crown, holding a sword and orb, with gold embroidery and regal symbols behind him. — Charlemagne Charlemagne, oil on limewood by Albrecht Dürer, 1512; in the collection of the German National Museum, Nürnberg, Germany.

Charlemagne required his free subjects to swear loyalty oaths as a means to strengthen his political authority and ensure the stability of his realm. By mandating that all free subjects swear to obey the king and conduct themselves in ways that contributed to peace and concord, he sought to reinforce the common bond of allegiance across his diverse and expansive territories.1

These oaths served as a critical tool for maintaining order, particularly as Charlemagne worked to integrate central and local administration. By requiring this public commitment, he aimed to ensure that his commands were executed locally and that his subjects remained unified under his leadership, which he increasingly viewed as a responsibility bestowed by God for the well-being of his people.1