The Defeat of the Neustrian-Aquitanian Alliance at Soissons (718)

Following their defeat at Vincy (717) and Charles Martel’s growing dominance over the Frankish realm, Chilperic IIand Ragenfrid seek to challenge his ascendancy by forging an alliance with Odo the Great (also known as Eudes), the Duke of Aquitaine. Odo had taken advantage of the Frankish civil war (715) to establish Aquitaine’s independence, resisting both Neustrian and Austrasian influence.

In 718, the allied forces of Neustria and Aquitaine march on Soissons, hoping to reverse their fortunes. However, Charles, anticipating the move, positions his forces strategically. By now, his army includes a battle-hardened core of veterans, many of whom will serve him loyally throughout their lives. This well-trained and disciplined force once again proves superior on the battlefield.

Charles Martel’s Decisive Victory

The confrontation near Soissons ends in a decisive victory for Charles Martel. The Neustrian-Aquitanian alliance is shattered, forcing Chilperic and Ragenfrid into retreat. This marks another turning point in the civil war, further isolating Neustria and demonstrating that no rival—whether Merovingian loyalist or regional duke—can match Charles’s growing military and political might.

With this victory, Charles Martel firmly establishes himself as the undisputed master of Francia, paving the way for his complete consolidation of power in the years to come.