The rebellion on the territory of the eastern roman empire under the leadership of Gainas in the context of the relationship of the main rebel with Alaric, Stilicho and the goths of the northern black sea region

Yartsev Sergey Vladimirovich

The article deals with the complex aspects of the relationship of the magister militum Gainas with Alaric, Stilicho and the Goths of the Northern Black Sea region on the eve and during the first months of the barbarian rebellion on the territory of the Eastern Roman Empire at the end of the 4th century. Based on a thorough analysis of the sources, the author concludes that Gainas' conspiracy became possible thanks to the break between Alaric and Eutropius. Probably, the main rebel offered Alaric's Foederati Goths more favorable conditions of residence and service in the Empire than those that Eutropius, the praepositus sacri cubiculi and the favorite of the Emperor, could provide to them. The author proposes a new concept of these events based on the idea of a radicalization of the rebellion, its orientation, both against Eutropius, and later against Stilicho. Apparently, this was the only way to win Alaric's Goths on their side, tearing them away from the alliance with Eutropius. At the same time, it is possible that it could also be a question of organizing a campaign of the Foederati Goths to the West against the army of Stilicho. In case of it being successful, the barbarians could well be promised lands for resettlement on the Apennine Peninsula. It seems right to suggest that the Goths of the Northern Black Sea region could have also agreed to participate in such a military expedition. Badly affected by the Hunnic invasion, they wanted to free themselves from the power of the nomads, knowing full well that to achieve this in the new conditions, it was possible only by moving to the territory of the Empire. Considering the fact of the main rebel having no other other allies, with the support of which he could effectively achieve his goals, the author concludes that only a powerful and unquestioningly obedient barbaric army could become Gainas' main support in his aspirations and could lead the powerful Goth to victory over his numerous enemies. Probably, Gainas planned to appoint his people of barbaric origin to all the central posts in the state. Thus achieved control over all key government departments would allow him to rule the Empire virtually single-handedly, relying on the faithful Goths.

Keywords:The Roman Empire, Stilicho, Eutropius, Alaric, Gainas, Tribigild, rebellion, the Goths.