What were the triumphs of the Carolingian Empire under Charlemagne?

The triumphs of the Carolingian Empire under Charlemagne prominently include the unification of Western Europe. Charlemagne sought to consolidate a vast territory that encompassed much of modern-day France, Germany, and parts of Italy and beyond. Through a series of military campaigns, he expanded his realm significantly, bringing various tribes and regions under his control. This expansion facilitated the blending of diverse cultures and local customs, leading to a more cohesive Western European identity during a time known as the Early Middle Ages.

Furthermore, Charlemagne's reign is marked by efforts to revive learning and culture, often referred to as the Carolingian Renaissance. By fostering education and encouraging the arts, he established a more standardized Christian culture across his empire, which also contributed to the unification process. His crowning as the Emperor of the Romans by Pope Leo III in 800 also signified the merging of secular and religious authority, reinforcing the idea of a unified Christian community in Western Europe under his leadership.

The other choices reflect aspects that either did not occur or were not primary focuses during his reign. For instance, while trade did expand within his realm, the expansion of trade routes was not particularly linked to Asia nor was it a central achievement of his efforts. Maritime dominance was not