Emperor Valens
Valens
was the co-emperor of the Roman Empire alongside his brother
Valentinian I from 367 to 378 AD. His reign was marked by significant
challenges, including military conflicts on the Danube frontier with
the Goths and internal religious strife, particularly with the spread
of Arianism. Valens' policies, especially his handling of the Goths,
ultimately contributed to the decline of the Roman Empire in the
East. He is also known for commissioning the construction of the
Valens Aqueduct in Constantinople.
Solidus depicting Valens - DN VALENS PF AUG
Image wikipedia
Early
Life and Reign:
Valens
was born in 328 AD and was the brother of Valentinian I. After
Valentinian's death in 375, Valens was proclaimed emperor of the
Eastern Roman Empire, while Valentinian's son, Gratian, inherited the
Western Empire. Valens was described as being less capable and more
prone to suspicion than his brother, often relying on advisors and
legists for guidance.
Military
Conflicts and the Goths:
One
of the most significant challenges of Valens' reign was the constant
threat from the Goths, a Germanic tribe residing along the Danube
frontier. Valens initially attempted to establish treaties with the
Goths, but these were often broken due to their aggressive nature and
the actions of his own officials.
In
376 AD, Valens made a fateful decision to allow starving Goths,
including the Visigoths, to enter Thrace, hoping to utilize them as
farmers and soldiers. However, the Goths were mistreated and
exploited by the Roman authorities, leading to widespread pillaging
and eventually, their open rebellion.
This
rebellion culminated in the decisive Battle of Adrianople in 378 AD,
where Valens' army was routed, and he was killed in the chaos. The
Battle of Adrianople is considered a turning point in Roman history,
as it marked the beginning of the end for the Western Roman Empire
and exposed the weaknesses of the Roman military.
Religious Policies and Arianism:
Valens
was a staunch supporter of Arianism, a Christian theological doctrine
that was in opposition to the Nicene Creed. His support for Arianism
led to persecution and exile of many orthodox bishops and clerics,
particularly in the East. This policy contributed to religious unrest
and division within the Empire, further weakening its foundations
The
Valens Aqueduct:
Despite
the challenges of his reign, Valens also made significant
contributions to infrastructure. The construction of the Valens
Aqueduct in Constantinople, a massive engineering project, is a
testament to his ambition and focus on providing water to the city.
This aqueduct provided a vital water supply to the capital, ensuring
its continued prosperity and growth.
Legacy:
Valens'
legacy is complex and largely negative. He is remembered for his
military failures, particularly the Battle of Adrianople, and his
religious policies which led to division and persecution. However,
his contributions to infrastructure, such as the Valens Aqueduct,
also serve as a reminder of his efforts to improve the lives of his
subjects.
Imperial Brothers:
Valentinian, Valens and the Disaster at Adrianople
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late Roman biographies tackles the careers of the brother emperors,
Valentinian and Valens
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