The Saxon Wars are the campaigns and insurrections of the more than thirty years from 772, when Charlemagne first enters Saxony with the intent to conquer, to 804, when the last rebellion of disaffected tribesmen is crushed.

In all, eighteen battles are fought in what is now northwestern Germany.

They result in the incorporation of Saxony into the Frankish realm and their conversion from paganism to Christianity.

Despite repeated setbacks, the Saxons resist steadfastly, forever returning to raid Charlemagne's domains as soon as he turns his attention elsewhere.

Their main leader, Widukind, is a resilient and resourceful opponent, but eventually is defeated and baptized (in 785).The Saxons are divided into four subgroups in four regions.

Nearest to the ancient Frankish kingdom of Austrasia is Westphalia and furthest away is Eastphalia.

In between these two kingdoms is that of Engria (or Engern) and north of these three, at the base of the Jutland peninsula, is Nordalbingia.