Avitus

Avitus, born in three hundred ninety-five, was a prominent figure in the late Roman Empire, serving as the Emperor of the Western Empire from July four hundred fifty-five to October four hundred fifty-six. His background as a senator of Gallic extraction and a high-ranking officer in both civil and military administration laid the foundation for his political career. Additionally, he held the esteemed position of Bishop of Piacenza, which further enriched his influence.

During his reign, Avitus was a staunch opponent of the reduction of the Western Roman Empire to Italy alone. He sought to maintain the Empire's broader integrity by introducing several Gallic senators into the Imperial administration. This initiative, however, faced significant resistance from the senatorial aristocracy and the citizens of Rome, who were still reeling from the devastating sack of the city by the Vandals in four hundred fifty-five.

Avitus cultivated a strong alliance with the Visigoths, particularly with their king, Theodoric II, who was not only a friend but also a supporter of Avitus's claim to the throne. This relationship was pivotal, as Theodoric's acclaim of Avitus as Emperor signified a potential for a powerful partnership between the Visigoths and the Romans. However, this alliance was jeopardized when Theodoric invaded Hispania at Avitus's request, which ultimately left Avitus vulnerable to the rebel Roman generals who would later depose him.