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How did Conrad II unite Germany, Italy, and Burgundy under the Roman Empire title?

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Map of Europe about 800 CE showing the extent of the Frankish kingdom under Charlemagne in light purple, covering much of present-day France, Germany, northern Italy, and neighboring regions. Areas inhabited by Slavic peoples who were tributary to Charlemagne are shaded in a darker purple to the east of the Frankish kingdom, including groups such as the Bohemians, Moravians, and Croats. Major cities, rivers, and neighboring kingdoms are labeled for context.
Holy Roman Empire

Conrad II, the founder of the Salian dynasty, consolidated his authority over Germany, Italy, and Burgundy through a combination of military force, strategic diplomacy, and the assertion of imperial rights.

  • Germany: After being elected king in 1024, Conrad solidified his rule by suppressing rebellions among the nobility and his own relatives. He established a stable monarchy that was no longer solely dependent on territorial nobles, and he ensured the succession of his son, Henry III, by having him elected and anointed as king in 1028.12
  • Italy: Conrad asserted German power in Italy by marching to Milan, where he was crowned king of Italy in 1026. He subsequently reached Rome, where he was crowned Holy Roman emperor in 1027. He later intervened in Lombardy to settle disputes between the warrior elite and lesser vassals, issuing the Constitutio de feudis in 1037 to stabilize the region.23
  • Burgundy: Following the death of the childless King Rudolf III in 1032, Conrad claimed the kingdom of Burgundy based on a prior offer made to his predecessor. Despite opposition from local princes, he secured their homage at Zurich in 1034.2