Gothic War (535–554)

The Gothic War (535–554) was a series of conflicts between the Eastern Roman Empire, also known as the Byzantine Empire, and the Ostrogothic Kingdom in Italy. Initiated by Emperor Justinian I, the war aimed to reclaim Italy and restore Roman rule after the fall of the Western Roman Empire. The conflict involved significant battles and devastating sieges, impacting both armies and civilians. Although the Byzantines initially gained ground, the war dragged on for nearly two decades, resulting in heavy casualties and ultimately a fragmented Italy, which weakened Byzantine control and laid the groundwork for future invasions.