The History of Rome

174- The Sack of Rome Part II

18 snips
Apr 2, 2012
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INSIGHT

Maximus's Lack of Legitimacy

  • Petronius Maximus lacked true imperial legitimacy and relied on forced marriage and shady politics.
  • His actions directly provoked the Vandals to sack Rome in 455 AD.
ANECDOTE

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.
ANECDOTE

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.
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