Military History of Late Rome 565-602

Military History of Late Rome 565-602 provides a new analysis of the Roman Empire in the aftermath of the reconquests of Justinian I, demonstrating that the initial troubles were largely the result of the mistakes of Justin II and that his successors, Tiberius II and Maurice, restored its fortunes and were poised to complete the reconquests. Maurice's reforms, codified in the military treatise the Strategikon, had achieved a position of relative superiority over all of its enemies, allowing the Romans to defeat the Persians, Slavs, and Avars and be poised to complete the project of reconquest. However, these gains were lost when Maurice was murdered in a military mutiny, bringing Phocas to power.

Format: Hardback
Length: 352 pages
Publication date: 30 August 2022
Publisher: Pen & Sword Books Ltd

The Military History of Late Rome 565-602 offers a novel and insightful perspective on the Roman Empire in the aftermath of the reconquests led by Justinian I (527-65). Contrary to popular belief, this analysis challenges the notion that Justinian overextended Roman resources. Instead, it demonstrates that the initial challenges were primarily due to the errors of Justin II (565-78) and that his successors, Tiberius II (578-82) and Maurice (582-602), not only reversed the empire's fortunes but were on the verge of completing the reconquests initiated by Justinian.

Maurice's reforms, codified in the military treatise the Strategikon, played a crucial role in elevating the Roman army to a position of relative superiority over its enemies. By 602, the Romans had successfully defeated the Persians, Slavs, and Avars, and were poised to conquer the remaining territories. However, these gains were tragically lost when Maurice was assassinated in a military mutiny, resulting in the rise of Phocas to power.

This volume delves into the reasons behind the Roman army's overthrow of one of the greatest Roman emperors in history. It was a period characterized by epic battles, and the author pays close attention to the tactics employed during this time. The book provides detailed analyses of numerous significant battles, including Melitene, Constantia, Sirmium, Nymphius River, Solanchon, Lake Urmiah, Plain of Canzak, Iatrus, and the pivotal battles of Priscus and Comentiolus in the Balkans.

By examining these battles in depth, the author sheds light on the strategies, tactics, and leadership that shaped the course of these conflicts. The Military History of Late Rome 565-602 is a valuable contribution to the study of Roman military history and offers a fresh perspective on a pivotal period in the empire's history.

Weight: 1134g
Dimension: 166 x 240 x 39 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781848848528