Adrianople 378: The Battle That Changed Rome

The Battle of Adrianople, fought on August 9, 378 CE, marked a pivotal moment in Roman military history, resulting in one of the most devastating defeats ever suffered by Roman arms and the death of Emperor Valens. This crucial engagement between the Eastern Roman Empire and Gothic 'rebels' fundamentally altered the relationship between Rome and the barbarian peoples beyond its frontiers.

Historical Context: Political Situation in Rome & Gothic Migrations

The Goths were a Germanic tribe originating from Gotland (historically also pronounced as Gothland), an island with a rich archaeological history. Those who migrated south into Europe were likely a branch of, or identical to, the Geats and Gute tribes. (Illustration: Paganheim)

The Roman Empire of 378 CE faced increasing pressures both internally and externally. The empire was divided between two emperors: Valens in the East and Gratian in the West. Valens, who had ruled the Eastern Empire since 364 CE, confronted mounting challenges from Gothic tribes seeking refuge within Roman territories.

In 376 CE, large groups of Thervingi Goths, led by Fritigern, petitioned for asylum within Roman territories, fleeing from the advancing Hunnic armies. Valens permitted their entry, viewing them as potential military recruits and taxpayers. However, Roman officials' corruption and mismanagement led to severe mistreatment of the Gothic refugees, fostering deep resentment.

Prelude to Battle: Military Preparations, Strategic Positions

By early 378 CE, the situation had deteriorated into open rebellion. Valens, stationed in Antioch, requested support from Western Emperor Gratian and began mobilizing Eastern forces. The Roman army comprised approximately 15,000 to 30,000 men, including both infantry and cavalry units.

The opposing forces met near Adrianople (modern-day Edirne, Turkey). Valens established a fortified camp, while Gothic forces formed a defensive wagon circle several miles north. Intelligence reports suggested that the Gothic forces numbered only 10,000 warriors, critically underestimating their actual strength.

The Battle: Initial Engagement, Main Battle Phase, Roman Collapse

Map of the battle, according to the History Department of the US Military Academy

On August 9, 378 CE, despite the summer heat and his troops' exhaustion from marching, Valens decided to attack without waiting for Gratian's reinforcements. The Roman army advanced toward the Gothic position around two o'clock in the afternoon, with their cavalry positioned on the right wing.

The battle began prematurely when Roman cavalry charged without orders, disrupting the planned deployment. Initially, Roman forces pressed the Gothic lines, but the situation changed dramatically with the unexpected arrival of Gothic cavalry, which had been foraging nearby. The Gothic horsemen crashed into the Roman flank, creating chaos in the Roman formations.

The Roman army's organization collapsed as Gothic cavalry encircled their positions. The close-packed Roman infantry, unable to maneuver effectively, suffered devastating casualties. Emperor Valens, attempting to rally his forces, fell in battle, though his body was never recovered.

Aftermath and Consequences: Immediate Impact & Long-term Historical Significance

The battle resulted in the deaths of approximately two-thirds of the Eastern Roman army, including many senior officers. This military catastrophe left the Balkans largely defenceless and demonstrated the effectiveness of combined cavalry and infantry tactics against traditional Roman military formations.

The Battle of Adrianople catalysed significant changes in Roman military organization and strategy. The defeat accelerated the adoption of heavy cavalry as a crucial battlefield component and led to increased recruitment of Germanic soldiers into Roman forces. These changes fundamentally altered the character of the late Roman army.

Archaeological investigations near modern Edirne have uncovered military equipment and human remains consistent with the battle's historical accounts. Metal detector surveys have revealed concentrations of Roman military equipment, though precise battlefield boundaries remain disputed among scholars.

History of the Goths - Herwig Wolfram

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1.      What caused the Battle of Adrianople?

The battle resulted from tensions between Gothic refugees and Roman authorities, culminating in open rebellion.

2.      How many casualties were there?

Estimates suggest 10,000-20,000 Roman soldiers died, including Emperor Valens.

3.      Why is the battle considered significant?

It marked a turning point in Roman military history and relations with Germanic peoples.

4.      What tactical innovations emerged from the battle?

The battle demonstrated the importance of cavalry and led to military reforms.

5.      How did the battle affect Roman-Gothic relations?

It fundamentally altered the power dynamic, leading to more autonomous Gothic settlements within Roman territories.

References

Ammianus Marcellinus, "Res Gestae," Book XXXI

Zosimus, "Historia Nova"

Heather, Peter. "The Fall of the Roman Empire: A New History"

Lenski, Noel. "Failure of Empire: Valens and the Roman State"

Hughes, Ian. "Stilicho: The Vandal Who Saved Rome"