Battle of Adrianople

The Battle of Adrianople, fought in 378 AD, was a significant conflict between the Eastern Roman Empire (Byzantine Empire) and the Goths, a group of Germanic tribes. The Roman army, led by Emperor Valens, faced a large Gothic force seeking refuge from invading Huns. The battle ended in a catastrophic defeat for the Romans, with Valens killed and his troops decimated. This event marked a turning point, demonstrating the declining power of Rome and foreshadowing future invasions, ultimately contributing to the empire's fragmentation. It underscored the challenges of managing cultural groups within the empire's borders.