The History of Rome 174- The Sack of Rome Part II
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Apr 2, 2012 Rome’s 455 sack begins amid a chaotic imperial power struggle, with Petronius Maximus facing an angry city and advancing Vandals. The story then follows the scramble to choose a successor, as Avitus courts Gothic support, Ricimer battles Vandal raiders, and shifting alliances bring down yet another emperor.
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Marriage Dispute Triggers Vandal Siege
- Maximus disrupted a planned marriage alliance with the Vandals, angering their king Genseric.
- The emperor's widow Lycinia Eudoxia begged Genseric to intervene, prompting the Vandal invasion.
Mob Execution of Maximus
- Citizens fled Rome as the Vandals approached due to lack of defense.
- Maximus was killed by a mob before the sack could begin, showing extreme public anger.
Vandal Sack Not Entirely Destructive
- The Vandal sack of Rome was less destructive than popular myth suggests.
- Pope Leo the Great may have persuaded Genseric to avoid burning the city, preserving much of it.