The Ottonian System

The idea was that Otto would rule his kingdom through the clergy. A whole array of abbots and churches were given complete immunity from the dukes. Bishops might even be appointed to the role of Duke, with the massive added advantage that they couldn't then fandered dynasty. It was a brilliant idea, and it works really well for 100 years or so. But its success was dependent on two things. Firstly, the king needed to control the Pope, so that he could make the decisions he needed to. So, in establishing a new Archbishop Rick in the lands freshly conquered from the Slavs. Secondly, he needed to be able to control church appointments within Germany, abbot's