Charlemagne accepts Widukind's defeat

Charlemagne's goal as an emperor was to unite his kingdom under Christian rule. After defeating the Lombards he began a three decade long war with the Saxons beginning in 772 continuing through 804. The Saxons were a Germanic tribe of Pagan worshippers led by Widukind. The war was long and ruthless. Charlemagne demanded that all Saxons convert to Christianity and be baptized, otherwise they would be killed. Thousands of Saxons died in battle and refusal to convert.