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Pepin the Hunchback_

Updated Feb 20, 2026

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Pepin the Hunchback: Frankish prince and rebel (c. 768–811).

Biography

Pepin the Hunchback was a Frankish prince. He was the eldest son of Charlemagne and noblewoman Himiltrude. He developed a humped back after birth, leading early medieval historians to give him the epithet "hunchback". He lived with his father's court after Charlemagne dismissed his mother and married Desiderata. Around 781, Pepin's half brother Carloman was rechristened as "Pepin"—a step that may have signaled Charlemagne's decision to disinherit the elder Pepin, for a variety of possible reasons. In 792, Pepin the Hunchback revolted against his father with a group of leading Frankish nobles, but the plot was discovered and put down before the conspiracy could be put into action. Charlemagne commuted Pepin's death sentence, having him tonsured and exiled to the monastery of Prüm instead. Since his death in 811, Pepin has been the subject of numerous works of historical fiction.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find more information about Pepin the Hunchback?
You can find more about Pepin the Hunchback on Wikidata. Their full profile and filmography is available on this page.

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