28: Tides of History: How the Eastern Roman Empire Survived Attila the Hun and the Disastrous Fifth Century

In this episode of "Tides of History," Patrick Wyman discusses the division of the Roman Empire into Eastern and Western halves after the death of Theodosius, focusing on the Eastern Empire's survival through the 5th century. The narrative follows a hypothetical family of soldiers and administrators, starting with Flavius Aeoricus, a soldier of Gothic descent in 394, and explores the challenges faced by the Eastern Empire, including Gothic rebellions, Hunnic invasions, and internal political strife. Despite these challenges, the Eastern Empire maintained stability through a strong bureaucracy, consistent tax revenues, and competent rulers, which contrasted sharply with the Western Empire's decline, culminating in the eventual survival and coherence of the East while the West collapsed. The episode also touches on the efforts to support the West, such as military expeditions to North Africa, and concludes with the resolution of Gothic issues under Emperor Zeno, setting the stage for Justinian's rise and reconquest efforts.