Rise of Venice (jan 1, 745 – jan 1, 810)

Description:

Politics of Frankish empire change factional division of Venice, to pro-Byzantine and desiring connection to the Empire, republican and want to continue course to independence, and pro-Frankish and looking to use Franks as defense against Lombards. Under pro-Lombard, Venice changes from fishing town to merchant trade port, with shipbuilding advanced and path to dominance of Adriatic begun. Dual tribunal power check system instituted. Venice established itself a thriving slave trade, buying in Italy, etc. and selling to Moors in N. Africa. Under pro-Byzantine, Venice moved forward to prominence even internationally and expand to Rialto islands in more concerted effort to establish a dynasty. Clash with Charlemagne and Venetian church over the slave trade. Under pro-Frankish, invite Charlemagne to defend city, ruler chased out of city for this, and resulting Carolingian siege fails in swamps. Achieve lasting independence by repelling besiegers and get Adriatic trading rights recognized by Byzantines.

Added to timeline:

Date: