870s

The 870s refers to the decade of the 870s, from January 1, 870, to December 31, 879. This period falls within the wider Carolingian era.

In Western Europe, the Frankish kingdoms continued to be a dominant force, though internal divisions and Viking raids presented significant challenges. The Treaty of Verdun, signed in 843, had already established a division of the Carolingian Empire, and the 870s saw further developments and conflicts stemming from this arrangement. Charles the Bald, Lothair II, and Louis the German were key rulers in this period. The Great Heathen Army continued its incursions into England, leading to significant disruptions and conflicts with Anglo-Saxon kingdoms. Alfred the Great was beginning to rise to prominence in Wessex during this time.

In the East, the Byzantine Empire faced ongoing conflicts with Arab forces and the Bulgarian Empire. The conversion of Bulgaria to Christianity, which occurred in the 860s, had significant political and cultural ramifications for the region. The Khazar Khaganate also remained a notable power in Eastern Europe.

The Islamic world saw the Abbasid Caliphate continue its influence, though faced with internal revolts and the rise of regional dynasties. The Aghlabids controlled North Africa, and tensions with the Byzantine Empire persisted.

The 870s were a decade of significant political realignments, military conflicts, and cultural developments across Eurasia and North Africa. The legacy of the Carolingian Empire continued to shape the political landscape of Europe, while the persistent threat of Viking expansion and the ongoing struggles in the Byzantine and Islamic worlds defined much of the era's history.