Rome sacked/falls to Barbarians

I am here this afternoon for a first person account of the Sack of Rome with Alaric.  It is 410 AD.


Q: Hello, my name is Julia Wilkins.  Would you please start by telling us a little bit about your early years?

Certainly.  My name is Alaric and I was born in 370 AD on an island near the Danube River into the Gothic culture.  My parents were fairly well off, and I was destined for a bright career.  At this time, Theodosius was the Emperor of Rome, and in 394 AD I worked as a general in the tribal German troops, known as the foederati.  This was the beginning of my military career.



Q: Who are the Visigoths?

A: The Visigoths are members of a branch of Goths in Rome who have been involved with many wars and conquests in their attempt to conquer Rome.  Around 378, we fought in a series of wars known as the Gothic Wars against the Roman Empire.  We Visigoths are also considered Barbarians.  After serving in the foederati and following the death of Theodosius, I became King of the Visigoths in 394 AD.



Q: What was the reasoning behind the Siege of Rome in 410 AD?

A: Prior to our fantastical attack, the Huns, led by the powerful general Attitla, had been causing us trouble for many years.  They were constantly trying to create trouble, and in the years prior to 410, had began to surround us.  Our only escape and next option of conquest would be to turn into the Roman Empire, and that is what we did.  We first entered Italy, and waited outside the gates of Rome, demanding money from Honorius, who was inside.  After refusing to pay for practically two years, we finally managed to get in.  On August 24, 410 AD, my Barbarian Visigoth troops besieged the city of Rome and looted it for all it had.



Q: How did this impact the Roman Empire?

A: After looting Rome as well as raping and murdering many of its innocent residents, we had control of the Roman Empire.  This brought about the fall of the Western Roman Empire.  Our victory was the first time that the Empire of Rome has lost to an enemy ever, besides the attempt made by the Gauls.  This showed that the Roman Empire was on a decline, and the army was quickly weakening.  The Romans underestimated our outside forces at this time, and the consequences were shocking to them.  They were stunned that someone could beat them, and I am amazingly proud to have been the leader of our amazing Visigoths at this time.


Thank you so much Alaric!