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Nelson on logistics of power

• mattered - only small part of an empire the size of Charlemagne’s could be governed directly. A conglomerate of previously separate regna, each with own hereditary nobility. Aristos of E Francia and Lombardy had strong collective identity.

• Placing son in sub-kingdom acknowledging regional strength. More tensions between fathers and sons than between regna + centre. capacity to legitmise property rights and confirm ecc privileges. Car royal authority à realm-wide force for legal / admin measures. Keeping control of royal agents serious problem; counts as valuable middle-men, heritability not challenged. Use of missi to report on counts / hold local inquisitions - also had considerable local authority. Qui custodes custodes? The king. Also use of vassi to aid king in decision-making / to be sent on diplomatic missions. Sanctions for failure to perform duties sacking / exile - usually used only for acts of treason.

• Visitors from regions to palace occupied Charlemagne. Some private initiatives, also public grievances. King also called assemblies, esp large summer proceedings; local issues represented. Kings took seriously obligation to promote peace.+ engage people in this effort.

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