Military History of Late Rome 602-641

The Military History of Late Rome 565-602 provides a fresh analysis of the Roman Empire from the reign of Phocas to the death of Heraclius, an era of unprecedented upheavals that led to the end of antiquity. The usurpations of Phocas and Heraclius led to the collapse of the Roman defenses, the Persians conquered Syria, Lebanon, Palestine, and Egypt, the Avars and Slavs ravaged the Balkans, the Lombards held the upper hand in Italy, the Visigoths conquered Spain, and the Muslims began their jihad to conquer the world. The author provides a fresh analysis of all of these upheavals, explains why these reversals of fortune happened, what enabled the Romans to defeat the Persians, and why the Romans lost when they fought against the Muslims. This is revisionist history writing at its best.

Format: Hardback
Length: 352 pages
Publication date: 23 November 2022
Publisher: Pen & Sword Books Ltd

The Military History of Late Rome, 565-602, offers a comprehensive examination of the Roman Empire during the reigns of Phocas (602-10) and Heraclius (610-41). This period marked a time of significant upheaval, often regarded as the end of antiquity. The usurpations of Phocas and Heraclius led to the collapse of the Roman defenses, as the Persians conquered Syria, Lebanon, Palestine, and Egypt. The Avars and Slavs ravaged the Balkans, while the Lombards held dominance in Italy. The Visigoths conquered Spain. However, a remarkable turn of events occurred. Heraclius initiated a holy war against the fire-worshippers, leading to a successful counterattack against the Persians. This victory not only resulted in the defeat of the Persians but also saw the Romans expand their domains at their expense. By 633, Heraclius had already begun restoring Roman fortunes in the Balkans.

This volume challenges and revises many previous perspectives on these events, providing a fresh analysis of the circumstances that led to these reversals of fortune. The Roman armies initially appeared invincible, until another great reversal unfolded. The Muslims initiated their jihad to conquer the world. The author delves into the details behind these upheavals, explaining the reasons for their occurrence, the factors that enabled the Romans to defeat the Persians, and the reasons for their loss against the Muslims.

The era of epic campaigns and battles characterized this period, and the author provides unprecedented detail in describing these conflicts. Prominent commanders such as Heraclius, Chosroes II Parwez, Shahrbaraz, Shahin, Abu Bakr, Umar, Abu Ubaydah, and Khalid b. al-Walid played crucial roles in these campaigns.

In conclusion, The Military History of Late Rome, 565-602, offers a comprehensive and insightful examination of a pivotal period in Roman history. Through detailed analysis and exploration, the author sheds light on the complex dynamics that shaped the empire's fortunes, providing valuable insights into the factors that contributed to the rise and fall of various factions and civilizations.

Weight: 1142g
Dimension: 165 x 240 x 39 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781399075671