The History of Rome 168- The Rise of Aetius
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Feb 5, 2012 This podcast explores the rise of Flavius Aetius, a Roman General who connived and backstabbed his way up the chain of command in the late 420s AD. It discusses the division of power in the Roman Empire, conflict with the Goths and Franks, the alleged Vandal invitation, and Aetius's alliance with the Huns to become the most powerful soldier and statesman in the region.
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Power Behind the Emperors
- The Western Roman Empire was fragmented with many rival power centers despite an appearance of unity with the East.
- True power lay with influential women like Galla Placidia and Elia Pulcheria rather than emperors.
Aetius Defends Gaul
- Flavius Aetius entered Gaul with 40,000 troops and easily drove back the Goths besieging Arles.
- He made no move to punish or pursue them, showing some respect for their territory boundaries.
Aetius Secures Barbarian Support
- Aetius defeated a combined Frankish army in 428 securing their acknowledgement of Roman supremacy.
- He secured agreements from Goths to supply troops if needed, consolidating his military influence.