The Fall Of The Roman Empire

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 97 "The Big Break" Oct 19, 2024

In 590, the emperor Maurice got his big break. Civil war in Persia opened up the possibility of an entirely new world.

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 96 "Hello, Goodbye" Oct 05, 2024

As the emperor Justin II descended into madness, Tiberius II stepped into his shoes. His reign would be short but eventful.

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 95 "The Mad Emperor" Sep 14, 2024

In 565, Justinian died and he was succeeded by his nephew, Justin II. How would he cope with the over-extended empire Justinian had created?

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

UPDATE ON NEXT SEASON - THE END OF THE ANCIENT WORLD Jul 27, 2024

A quick update on the next season in this podcast, starting on 14th September. It's going to be the most exciting of all - about the collapse of the ancient world in the seventh century AD, and the rise of Islam. A true turning point in history.

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 94 "Did Justinian Make or Break the Roman Empire?" Jun 29, 2024

Did Justinian make or break the Roman Empire? Find out in this episode!

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 93 "Anatomy of a Regime" Jun 15, 2024

In this episode, we look at society and religion in the age of Justinian. And we discover something that's been hidden in the sands of Egypt for 1,500 years.

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 92 "The Wolves from the North" Jun 08, 2024

Justinian's wars of reconquest in the west left much of the Roman Empire weakly defended. Nowhere was this more evident than along the Danube frontier where new enemies were massing to pillage the empire and slaughter its inhabitants. They were the wolves from the north.

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 91 "Those Doomed to Suffer" Jun 01, 2024

In the early 550s, with its economy and population recovering from the effects of the Justinianic Plague, Justinian launched a new offensive to subdue the Ostrogoths in Italy. This time the Roman army was well resourced and success looked likely. But would the cost of victory be worth it?

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 90 "Three Hundred Heroes" May 25, 2024

In 544, Belisarius returned to Italy to fight the Goths. It was his last campaign and the end of his career. But many years later, he was asked by the emperor Justinian to don his armor one more time and save the empire from a new foe!

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 89 "Belisarius is Back!" May 17, 2024

In 540, the Persians sacked Antioch. It was one of the greatest disasters in Roman history. But in 541, Belisarius was back from Italy. Could he now reverse the situation on the eastern front?

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 88 "Burying the Dead" May 11, 2024

In the summer of 541, bubonic plague struck the Roman Empire. Known as the Justinianic Plague, it would be just as bad as the Black Death that 800 years later devastated Medieval Europe. Find out what happened here!

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 87 "The Day the Sun Died" May 04, 2024

In the year 536, something very strange happened on planet Earth. The sun was dimmed and temperatures plummeted. This was followed by another apparently inexplicable event. A pandemic of unparalleled proportions struck the eastern Roman Empire. What was going on?? Find out in this episode!

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 86 "The Sack of Antioch" Apr 27, 2024

In May 540, the unthinkable happened. The Persian shah, Chosroes, burned the Roman Empire's second city, Antioch, to the ground and butchered or enslaved its inhabitants. How did this catastrophe happen? Find out here!

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 85 "The Hollow Victory" Apr 20, 2024

In May 540, Belisarius captured Ravenna from the Goths and took prisoner the Gothic king Wittigis. But before he could destroy the Gothic kingdom completely, he was recalled to Constantinople to face the invading Persians. In the next few years, a new Gothic king - Totila - would retake most of Italy.

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 84 "Divided We Fall" Apr 13, 2024

After Belisarius' heroic defense of Rome in 537-538, it looked as if there might be a rapid end to the Gothic war. But no. The Roman high command was wracked by internal division that would prolong the war and lead to the tragic sack of Milan.
Check out my website nickholmesauthor.com for a free ebook, maps and blogs.
Find my latest book, 'Rome and Attila' on Amazon.

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 83 "The Siege of Rome" Mar 30, 2024

In the summer of 536, Belisarius crossed the straits of Messina and marched on Rome. His army numbered 6,000 and he faced at least 30,000 Goths. It would be his greatest test.
Check out my website nickholmesauthor.com for a free ebook, maps and blogs.
Find my latest book, 'Rome and Attila', on Amazon.com here.

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 82 "The Kingdom of the Ostrogoths" Mar 23, 2024

After Belisarius' triumph in North Africa, Justinian turned his gaze to Italy and the Kingdom of the Ostrogoths. But what was that Kingdom like? Find out here.
For a free ebook, maps, blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com.
For my latest book, Rome and Attila, click here.

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 81 "Trouble in Paradise" Mar 16, 2024

Belisarius conquered the Vandal kingdom in North Africa in just six months. But it would take 15 years to bring peace to this new province of the Roman Empire. Find you why in this episode. Also, find a free ebook, maps and blogs at my website nickholmesauthor.com. Link here for my exciting new book 'Rome and Attila' only just out!

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 80 "The Last Vandal King" Mar 09, 2024

On 15th September, 533, Belisarius captured Carthage from the Vandals. But the Vandal king Gelimer was mustering all the forces he could for a last desperate battle. Interested in finding out more about Roman history? Visit my website nickholmesauthor.com for maps, blogs and a free ebook!

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 79 "Victory in Africa" Mar 02, 2024

In June 533, Belisarius sailed for North Africa to reconquer Carthage. Most people thought he would fail...
Please do visit my website nickholmesauthor.com for books, podcast episodes, maps, blogs and a free ebook!

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 78 "Next Stop Carthage" Feb 17, 2024

The Nika riots ripped the heart out of Constantinople and nearly toppled Justinian. Desperate to restore his authority, Justinian looked west to the Vandal kingdom of Carthage which was experiencing its own problems.
To find maps, blogs and a free ebook check out my website nickholmesauthor.com

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

BOOK ANNOUNCEMENT - 'Rome and Attila' Book 3 in The Fall of the Roman Empire Feb 09, 2024

My latest book, 'Rome and Attila', is now available on Amazon in ebook and paperback, links below. It’s about one of the most infamous figures in history—Attila the Hun. He’s a household name, but remarkably little is known about him and his popular legend as a brutal tyrant is not necessarily correct. I delve into the primary sources in search of the real Attila and find someone very different from the legend—a complex, captivating personality who despised ostentation, admired bravery and valued loyalty.

I also develop a new theory about the military history of this period, suggesting it was Attila’s ferocious onslaught against Constantinople that prompted the development of a new and more professional eastern Roman army which formed the basis for the army that Belisarius would later lead to victory when he reconquered much of the west in the sixth-century.

Now, of course you’ve heard about this in the podcast episodes but I hope the book offers much more since it has maps, pictures and it’s certainly more than just a transcript of the podcast since it goes into more detail in some areas and also contains more developed analysis and ideas than when I was recording the podcasts. So, think of the podcasts, if you like, as an introduction to the book.

Thanks for your time and I hope you enjoy it!
Link to buy the book Amazon.com
Link to buy the book Amazon.co.uk

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 77 "Nika" Feb 03, 2024

In January 532, the Nika riots in Constantinople shook the world and nearly overthrew the emperor Justinian. Find out what happened here. Link to my website for free resources - nickholmesauthor.com

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 76 "The Road to Nika" Jan 20, 2024

Despite Belisarius' victory at Dara in 530, dissatisfaction was growing with Justinian which would soon lead to rebellion.

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 75 "Belisarius and the Battle of Dara" Jan 06, 2024

In this episode, we meet one of Rome's greatest generals who will change the course of history. His name is Belisarius.

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 74 "Justinian, Theodora, and the Secret History" Dec 23, 2023

Procopius is our main source for Roman history in the sixth century. He praises Justinian, Theodora and above all, Belisarius. But he's also left us with an unpublished document called the Secret History which contradicts everything he said in his other works. What's going on? Find out in this episode. For my website click here.

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 73 "Justin and Justinian" Dec 09, 2023

In 518, the emperor Anastasius died. According to Procopius, he was succeeded by an illiterate peasant named Justin. Although this did not sound promising, it was the beginning of a new golden age.
Link to website nickholmesauthor.com

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 72 "Wars of Religion" Nov 25, 2023

In this episode, we continue with one of the most remarkable but largely forgotten Roman emperors - Anastasius. In his reign, a great religious conflict divided the empire and one that nearly toppled him from power.

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 71 "Oh No! The Sasanians Are Back" Nov 11, 2023

Anastasius was one of the most important but often ignored of the eastern Roman emperors. In his reign, to paraphrase Gregory of Tours: 'A great many things happened, some good, some bad.' In this episode, we look at one that was decidedly bad for the Romans - the return of the Sasanians.

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 70 "The New Diocletian" Oct 14, 2023

Anastasius is not one of Rome's most famous emperors but his achievements were critical to the growing strength of the eastern empire. It would be no exaggeration to say he was 'The New Diocletian'.

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 69 "The Great Survivor" Sep 30, 2023

After the defeat at Carthage in 468, the eastern empire was looking precarious. But a new emperor, Zeno, would ensure both its and his own survival.

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 68 "The Rise of the Ostrogoths" Sep 16, 2023

The Western Empire has fallen. In the East, Rome stands firm despite the failure of its expedition to recover North Africa. But a new power is emerging: the Ostrogoths.

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

UPDATE: The Road to Justinian Aug 19, 2023

Just a quick update on the next season which I’m very excited about because it will cover the reign of the emperor Justinian when his famous general, Belisarius, reconquered much of the west. We'll start on September 16th. See you then!

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 67 "Awaking A Sleeping Giant" Jul 29, 2023

Before we begin the story of the great Age of Justinian, let's return to Attila the Hun. What was his role in paving the way for Justinian? You may be in for a surprise!

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 66 "Once Upon A Time In Noricum" Jul 01, 2023

In this episode, we look at what life for ordinary people was like as the western empire fell. And one extraordinary document has survived to tell us a fascinating tale.

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 65 "Not with a Bang but a Whimper" Jun 17, 2023

We are now counting down the days to the official end of the Western Roman Empire in AD 476. But there are plenty of twists and turns still to come.

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 64 "The Fire Ships" Jun 10, 2023

In 468, the eastern emperor Leo launched an invasion fleet to recapture Carthage from the Vandals. It was one of the greatest military expeditions in Roman history.

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 63 "The Virtual King of Italy" Jun 03, 2023

In 461, Ricimer executed the emperor Majorian. He would become the virtual king of Italy.

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 62 "The Last Hope of the West" May 20, 2023

After the Vandals sacked Rome in AD 455, it looked as if the Western Roman Empire might be finished. But a new emperor seized power. His name was Majorian. He was the last hope of the West.

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 61 "The Sack of Rome Part II" May 13, 2023

The year is AD 455. The Vandals are at the gates of Rome. The emperor, Petronius Maximus, has been ripped to pieces by the Roman mob. Is this now the end of the western empire?

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

BOOK ANNOUNCEMENT - The Fall of Rome Apr 30, 2023

I wanted to let you know my second book, called The Fall of Rome, is now available on Amazon. It's about how the unthinkable happened in AD 410 when Rome was sacked by the Goths. Packed with maps and pictures, it's only $3.99 for the ebook and $11.99 for the print version. Hope you enjoy it!

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 60 "Cutting Off Your Right Hand" Apr 29, 2023

On the 21 September 454, one of the most extraordinary events in all of Roman history happened. Aetius, the hero of the Western Empire, was stabbed to death by the emperor Valentinian III.

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 59 "The End of Attila's Empire" Apr 22, 2023

In AD 453, the eastern Roman emperor, Marcian, dreamed an angel brought him a broken Hunnic bow. Two days later, news reached Constantinople that Attila the Hun was dead. Now, his great empire began to unravel.

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 58 "The Italian Job" Apr 08, 2023

After his defeat at the Battle of the Catalaunian Plains, Attila looked for an easier target than Gaul or Constantinople. In 452, a Hunnic army swept into the Adriatic side of Italy. The Italian job had begun.

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 57 "The Battle of the Catalaunian Plains" Apr 01, 2023

On 20 June, 451, one of the most decisive battles in history took place in Gaul as Attila's invading army was met by a great coalition of Romans, Visigoths, Alans, Franks and others. It was the battle for western Europe.

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 56 "Attila and Aetius" Mar 25, 2023

The year is AD 451. Attila the Hun is marching on Gaul. There the Roman general Aetius - remembered as 'The Last of the Romans' - is trying to form a grand coalition to save Europe.

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 55 "Attila's Bride" Mar 18, 2023

In AD 450, a Roman princess called Honoria contacted Attila the Hun. She asked him to stop an arranged marriage with a man she disliked. Attila replied: why not marry me instead?

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 54 "Dinner with Attila" Mar 11, 2023

In 447, Attila struck the Eastern Roman Empire. It was the largest military engagement for half a century. After peace was agreed, the Romans sent an embassy to have dinner with Attila...and assassinate him!

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 53 "Attila the Hun" Feb 25, 2023

In the 430s, a new Hunnic leader rose to power. Soon his name would strike fear into the hearts of the Romans. It was Attila.

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 52 "The Fall of Africa" Feb 11, 2023

In AD 433, Aetius secured his position as the effective ruler of the Western Roman Empire. With the help of the Huns, he defeated the Burgundians and Visigoths. But a disaster was about to strike the Western Empire.

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 51 "The Rise of Aetius" Jan 28, 2023

In AD 425, the six-year-old Valentinian III became emperor of the west. Another child emperor created another power vacuum. His mother, Galla Placidia, would try to hold onto power but could she thwart the ambitions of a Roman general called Aetius?

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 50 "All Quiet on the Eastern Front" Jan 14, 2023

In this episode, we find out what was happening in the eastern half of the Roman Empire after the sack of Rome in AD 410. And it won't be long before an eastern army arrives in Ravenna.

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire BONUS Episode "The Strange Tale of Attila, Honoria and Milan"" Jan 07, 2023

Happy New Year 2023! This is a bonus episode about my recent trip to Milan where I was struck by the strange absence of Roman remains - and found the answer in the strange tale of Attila the Hun and the Roman princess Honoria!

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 49 "Restoring the Roman Name?" Dec 31, 2022

The year is AD 410. Rome has been sacked. Is this the end of the western empire? Not yet. And the next few years will be full of surprises.

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 48 "Was Climate Change Rome's Real Killer?" Dec 10, 2022

In this episode, we reflect on the reasons for the sack of Rome in AD 410, and ask whether climate change on the steppe-lands of Asia was the ultimate cause?

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 47 "The Decline of the Roman Army" Dec 03, 2022

Why didn't the Roman army defend the city of Rome better when it was sacked in AD 410? Many historians blame the internal conflict within the empire. But the Roman army was also in terminal decline. Find out why in this episode.

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 46 "The Sack of Rome" Nov 26, 2022

In AD 410, Alaric the Visigoth sacked Rome. It was the first time in 800 years that the city had fallen. Find out in this episode why and how it happened.

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 45 "The Road to Disaster" Nov 19, 2022

In AD 408, Stilicho's fall from power was as spectacular as his rise had been. Alaric took advantage of this to invade Italy and lay siege to Rome. The western Roman Empire was rapidly imploding.

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 44 "All Gaul A Single Funeral Pyre" Nov 12, 2022

In December AD406, catastrophe struck the Roman Empire as a huge force of Germanic barbarians crossed the Rhine. Could Stilicho, the Roman general and hero of two wars with the Goths, save the empire?

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 43 "Stilicho Triumphant" Oct 22, 2022

In the early fifth century, Stilicho led the Roman armies in the west to victory after victory over the Goths, giving new hope to the empire.

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 42 "Drifting into the Fifth Century" Oct 15, 2022

At the end of the fourth century, the Roman Empire lacked strong emperors and was ruled by Stilicho in the west and Eutropius in the east. As it drifted into the fifth century it was drifting towards disaster.

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 41 "The Roman Empire Divided" Oct 08, 2022

When the emperor Theodosius died in 395, he left the empire to his two young sons, Arcadius in the east, and Honorius in the west. It proved to be an unhappy legacy.

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 40 "Theodosius the Not So Great" Oct 01, 2022

The emperor Theodosius I is sometimes called 'The Great'. But if he was so great why was the city of Rome sacked by the Goths only fifteen years after his death? Find out in this episode.

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

DISCOUNTED BOOK ANNOUNCEMENT - The Roman Revolution Sep 20, 2022

This is just to let you know that you can get my ebook called The Roman Revolution, which accompanies the first part of my podcast, at a discounted price at Amazon for the next few days (until 29th September). It focuses on the transition from the classical Roman Empire to Constantine's Christian-centred empire run out of Constantinople. It's priced at 99 cents or pence in the US, UK, Canada and Australia. Links to it on Amazon by country are below.
Link to US
Link to UK
Link to Canada
Link to Australia

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 39 "Usurpers and Arians" Sep 17, 2022

After its disastrous defeat at the Battle of Adrianople, you might think the late Roman Empire had enough problems already. But in Theodosius' reign, the Romans decided to add a few more in the form of civil wars and a bitter theological dispute.

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 38 "The Battle of Adrianople" Sep 10, 2022

On the 9th August, AD 378, the eastern emperor Valens rode north from Adrianople to give battle to the Goths. The outcome of this conflict would prove decisive in the history of the fall of the Roman Empire.

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 37 "War with the Goths" Sep 03, 2022

In the summer of AD 376, a vast mass of Goths, maybe 200,000 men, women and children, appeared on the river Danube, begging for asylum. They were fleeing from the Huns. The eastern emperor, Valens, was at that moment preparing for war against the Persians. What should he do? The next few years would prove decisive for the future of the Roman Empire.

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 36 "The Huns are Coming" Aug 27, 2022

In AD 376, a huge host of Goths, maybe 200,000 strong, appeared on the banks of the river Danube. But this was not the usual raid for plunder. Instead, the Goths appealed for asylum on Roman territory from a terrifying new enemy - the Huns.

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 35 "Keeping the Show on the Road" Aug 20, 2022

After Julian's death on campaign in Persia in AD 363, his successors struggled to stave off growing barbarian invasions in the west and Persia's new-found dominance in the east. They did their best to keep the show on the road but the cracks in Rome's armour were beginning to show. Indeed, for the emperor Valentinian, it all proved too much when he literally burst a blood vessel and died in a fit of anger while negotiating with the German tribe, the Quadi.

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 34 "Julian's Destiny" Aug 13, 2022

In March 363, the emperor Julian led one of the largest Roman armies ever seen into Persia. He thought his destiny was to be the next Alexander the Great. Things didn't work out quite as he'd hoped.

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 33 "Julian and Persia" Aug 06, 2022

In March 363, the emperor Julian led a vast army east to fight Persia. Why did he want to risk his own future and the future of the Roman Empire by taking on its most powerful adversary? Find out in this episode.

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 32 "Julian the Philosopher King" Jul 30, 2022

Julian the Apostate is best remembered for his epithet 'the Apostate', referring to his anti-Christian policies. But what was he really like and how did he want to change the Roman Empire? Find out in this episode.

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 31 "The Battle of Strasbourg" Jul 23, 2022

In late August, 357, Julian, the new Caesar in Gaul, watched as a massive German army, 35,000 strong, crossed the Rhine to face him outside Strasbourg. Julian was heavily outnumbered with a Roman army of only 13,000 men. But he decided to fight what would become one of the most famous battles in Roman history: the Battle of Strasbourg.

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

BOOK ANNOUNCEMENT - The Roman Revolution Jul 16, 2022

This is just to let everyone know that my book covering the early part of this podcast is now available on Amazon priced at $2.99 or equivalent in other countries. It has 10 maps and 15 images which I hope will bring the podcast to life as well as more detailed written content! Print version will be available to all retailers (not just Amazon) in the next week or so. Here is the link to the book on Amazon US. One click and you're there! Hope you enjoy it!

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 30 "Julian in Gaul" Jul 16, 2022

Julian the Apostate was one of the most extraordinary emperors in all Roman history. Find out in this episode how the bookish young man began his ascent to power.

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 29 "Rebellion in the West" Jul 09, 2022

In the middle of the fourth century, the emperor Constantius II faced not just a revitalised Persia in the east, but the agony of civil war as Magnentius, a popular general in the Rhine army, seized power in the west.

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 28 "Return of the Persians" Jul 02, 2022

After Constantine's death, political instability returned to the Roman Empire as his three sons jostled for power. But just as disturbing was the resurgence of a powerful Persia led by the formidable new King of Kings, Shapur II.

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 27 "The Sons of Constantine" Jun 25, 2022

Constantine's reign was a watershed moment for the Roman Empire - with his conversion to Christianity and the founding of Constantinople. But what happened when he died? Find out in this episode!

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 26 "The Booming Fourth Century" Jun 18, 2022

If you'd met a fourth century Roman and asked them what they thought of their emperor, Constantine, you might have expected them to talk about Christianity or Constantinople, but instead, they would probably have shown you a gold coin called the 'Solidus' which was to become the dollar of both the ancient and medieval worlds.

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 25 "Constantinople" Jun 11, 2022

The Emperor Constantine is probably best remembered for his conversion to Christianity. But his founding of the city of Constantinople was another landmark event that was to shape the entire future of the Roman Empire.

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 24 "Constantine's Conversion" May 28, 2022

The Emperor Constantine's conversion to Christianity shortly before the Battle of the Milvian Bridge in AD 312 is seen as a landmark event in not just the history of the Roman Empire but of Christianity, and indeed of the entire world. But what really happened? Find out in this episode.

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 23 "The Rise of Christianity" May 21, 2022

One of the most remarkable aspects of the Roman Empire was the rapid rise of Christianity in the late third and fourth centuries. While much attention has been focused on the roles of emperors, like Diocletian, who persecuted the Christians, and Constantine, who championed them, in this episode, we'll look at one of the questions which has always puzzled historians - what were the underlying reasons for the spread of Christianity in Roman society?

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 22 "Tetrarchs and Christians" May 07, 2022

In the late third century, the Roman Empire was changing rapidly. Civil war had done much to contribute to its near destruction. Now, the radical Emperor Diocletian came up with an innovative solution for this - the Tetrarchy. He also decided to confront a strange new religion that was increasingly a threat to the traditional Roman gods - Christianity.

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 21 "Diocletian's New Economics" Apr 30, 2022

Diocletian's greatest innovation may sound mundane but it was to form the basis of the financial strength of the Roman and Byzantine Empires for centuries to come. It was the reform of the Roman tax system.

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 20 "Diocletian's New Empire" Apr 23, 2022

In AD 284, a new Emperor seized the purple. His name was Diocletianus, or Diocletian, as he is better known to us. He had a new vision of the Empire which was as revolutionary as that of Augustus, three hundred years before.

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 19 "The World Restored" Apr 09, 2022

Having defeated Palmyra in AD 272, Aurelian turned west to face the breakaway Gallic Empire. Could he now reunite the Roman Empire?

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 18 "The Defeat of Palmyra" Apr 02, 2022

In AD 272, the Emperor Aurelian's eastern offensive was in full swing. His army recaptured Antioch while, in the south, the Roman navy reconquered Egypt. But Palmyra was far from finished and great battles were still to be fought.

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 17 "The Battle for the East" Mar 26, 2022

In the AD 270s, the Roman Empire was fighting for its life. But the Emperor Aurelian was one of the best generals in Rome's history. He managed to defeat a German invasion of Italy and then pushed the Goths back over the Danube. He was now ready to turn east to face the might of Palmyra.

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 16 "Man of Steel" Mar 19, 2022

When Claudius Gothicus died of the plague in AD270, it seemed as if the Roman fight back against the barbarian invasions might be stalled. But his deputy, Aurelian, quickly assumed the purple and led the Roman armies to even greater glories.

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 15 "A New Army" Mar 12, 2022

In the late AD 260s, under the leadership of the soldier-Emperor, Claudius 'Gothicus', the Roman army started to turn the tide against its enemies. So, how and why had the Roman army changed? Find out in this episode!

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 14 "A New Type of Emperor" Mar 05, 2022

We've now reached one of the most exciting parts of Roman history. With the break-up of the Roman Empire in the AD 260s, the situation looked extremely bleak. But this was the catalyst for revolution, and the emergence of a new breed of tough soldier-Emperors who would save the Empire.

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 13 "The Fall before the Fall" Feb 26, 2022

One of the most fascinating parts of Roman history is the little known "Fall before the Fall". This was the period from around AD 250 to 275 when the Roman Empire broke up into three separate parts. It was a close-run thing if the empire would survive. Find out more here!

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 12 "Climate Change" Feb 19, 2022

You might not immediately associate climate change with the Roman Empire but in fact it was critically important both to Rome's rise to power and also to its fall. Find out why here!

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 11 "Plague" Feb 12, 2022

The decline of the Roman Empire was not only due to barbarian invasions and civil war. In the second century AD, it was hit by the first pandemic known in human history: the Antonine Plague. Was it germs rather than Germans that brought down the empire?

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 10 "Goths" Feb 05, 2022

More than any other Germanic tribe, the Goths would dominate Roman history from the third to the sixth centuries. In this episode, we hear how they were the first of Rome's many enemies to precipitate the crisis of the third century.

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 9 "Germans" Jan 29, 2022

The third century was a time of crisis for the Roman Empire. Not only was Persia revived by the Sasanians but, in the West, the Germans posed a far greater threat than ever before. Find out why in this episode!

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 8 "Persians" Jan 22, 2022

In the third century, Rome faced a reinvigorated Persia, led by the Sasanian dynasty. In 260 AD, the Roman Emperor Valerian was defeated and captured. Allegedly, the Persian King used him as a footstool to mount his horse before flaying him and displaying his skin in his palace. How did the Sasanians triumph over the Romans? Find out in this episode.

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 7 "The Secret of the Empire" Jan 15, 2022

Tacitus wrote that the Year of the Four Emperors, in 68-69AD, revealed "The Secret of the Empire." It was a secret that would lead to the near collapse of the Roman Empire in the third century. Find out in this episode what that secret was!

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 6 "The Reign of Commodus" Jan 08, 2022

Marcus Aurelius was the last of the 'Good Emperors'. His son, Commodus, proved to be the exact opposite of his father. A bloodthirsty tyrant, his reign is often seen as marking the beginning of the decline and fall of the Roman Empire.

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 5 "Pax Romana" Jan 01, 2022

Augustus' Roman Empire produced over two hundred years of peace in Europe, North Africa and the Middle East. It was called the 'Pax Romana', or Roman Peace. It has never been achieved before or since. So, how did the Romans do it? Find out in this episode.

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 4 "Augustus" Dec 24, 2021

Julius Caesar lies dead on the floor of the Senate. What will happen now? The answer lies with a man called Octavian, who will surprise and astonish the ancient world by reinventing the Roman state and ensuring two hundred years of peace - he is better known by his honorary title of Augustus, the first Roman Emperor.

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 3 "Hail Caesar" Dec 18, 2021

In this episode, we look at the collapse of the Roman Republic, and the man whose brilliance and whose greed for power, caused a crisis in the Roman world. This was Julius Caesar, the most famous Roman of all.

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 2 "The Path to Glory" Dec 09, 2021

We continue with the story of Rome's rise to power in the third and second centuries BC, and ask two vital questions: first, did the Romans simply get lucky? Second, how did the Roman legions become the most feared fighting machine of the ancient world?

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

The Fall of the Roman Empire Episode 1 "Introduction" Dec 04, 2021

Welcome to the Fall of the Roman Empire! Ever wondered why and how the Roman Empire fell? Then you've come to the right place! This episode explains how the show works and starts at the very beginning of Rome's rise to power since we need to know what Rome was to understand why it fell.

For a free ebook, maps and blogs check out my website nickholmesauthor.com
Find my latest book, Rome and Attila, on Amazon

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