How did Charlemagne rule his empire?

Charlemagne ruled his empire through a combination of military conquests, administrative reforms, and the support of the Church. He expanded his territory across much of Western Europe, establishing a centralized authority while also delegating power to local nobles, known as counts, to maintain control over distant regions. Charlemagne promoted education and culture, leading to the Carolingian Renaissance, and he sought to unify his diverse empire under Christianity, strengthening ties with the papacy. His governance emphasized loyalty and service, fostering a network of vassalage that was crucial to his rule.