Final answer:
Pepin the Short emerged as the undisputed leader of the Franks through a combination of political maneuvering and military conquests. He orchestrated a coup against the Merovingians and gained the support of the pope, solidifying his legitimacy. Pepin also expanded the Frankish kingdom through military campaigns.
Step-by-step explanation:
Pepin the Short emerged as the undisputed leader of the Franks through a combination of political maneuvering and military conquests.Firstly, Pepin's father, Charles Martel, successfully defeated the invading Arab armies, which increased the prestige and influence of their family. Later, Pepin orchestrated a coup against the Merovingians, the ruling dynasty at the time, and gained the support of the pope, solidifying his legitimacy as the new ruler.Pepin also embarked on a series of military campaigns, expanding the Frankish kingdom and consolidating his power. He notably defeated the Lombards and declared himself king of the Lombards, establishing a precedent for a Germanic ruler to rule over a different people.