Alaric I Sacks Rome | 411AD-420AD
A.D. History Podcast - A podcast by Paul K. DiCostanzo, Patrick Foote
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Alaric I – the first king of the Visigoths – is maneuvering for what is his impending sacking of Rome – the first time in over eight centuries! While Sub-Roman Britain is experiencing the chaos that the newest power vacuum creates with the Roman Empire no longer present to administer order. Alaric I & The Sacking of Rome In the apogee of Alaric I’s story, he is awaiting his moment to strike. For years now, this Roman trained Goth warrior has awaited what is long overdue to him, receiving his station of “Master of Soldiers.” Alaric I and his Goth army served the Roman military with tremendous battlefield distinction at tremendous cost. In doing so, Alaric was both promised this office and clearly earned it in spades. At every turn Alaric was denied his due – the product of Roman insider political squabbles. Alaric’s patience has run short, and the city of Rome will settle the outstanding debt. Alaric I in his quest to receive the title of “Master of Soldiers” is not a matter of individual glory. It is that billet’s benefit to his army that he holds so dear. Alaric becoming Master of Soldiers entitles him to receiving large quantities of grain and gold at the expense of the Roman government. This bounty both feeds and pays the forces under his command. It is no small prize. Alaric will achieve both ends – even if that requires invading and plundering the Eternal City itself. Alaric is biding his time in the Balkans, taking great care to choose his moment well. The city of Rome is clear in his crosshairs. The Western Roman Empire’s leadership, despite feeling the tip of the sword of Damocles just above their heads, is still seemingly more interested in fighting each other. In doing so, they’re throwing open the city gates of Rome to Alaric I. With this unfathomable state of affairs, Alaric is poised to do something that hasn’t been done in over eight centuries. * Meet the Huns: History’s Perfect Enigma | 351AD-360AD * How Did The Library of Alexandria Actually Burn Down? | 391AD-400AD * Why Did The Roman Economy Fail In The Third Century? | 251AD-260AD Sub-Roman Britain: Here Comes the Angles, Saxons & Jutes! In returning to Sub-Roman Britain, we are encountering the knowledge black hole that period represents for historians. Patrick explores the salient historical legends originating from that period, reflecting what historians know to be the paramount conflict in this newest chapter of Britain’s history. The Angles, Saxons and Jutes are making their way from the continent. With the Romans having recently abandoned Britannia, the native Britons are not pleased to welcome these newcomers… How Can You Help Create More A.D. History? Join Odo’s ADophyte Army on Patreon! Joining A.D. History on Patreon is a tremendous way to help support the show going forward. If you donate to A.D. History on the $5 per month tier or higher – you’re eligible to submit a question for us to answer in the show’s middle segment. Send us your question, and we will feature YOUR question in an upcoming middle segment! Creating and producing A.D.