The Merovingian dynasty was the royal family of the Franks that ruled large parts of Western Europe from 481 to 751 CE
The Merovingians' long hair distinguished them from other Franks, who commonly cut their hair short. Later authors referred to the early 5th century Frankish kings as the "long-haired kings" (Latin reges criniti), and the Merovingians continued that tradition. A Merovingian whose hair was cut could not rule, and a rival could be removed from the succession by being tonsured and sent to a monastery. The Merovingians also used a distinct name stock. One of their names, Clovis, evolved into Louis and remained common among French royalty down to the 19th century.
