Ataulf
Ataulf, also known as Atawulf or Ataulfo, was a significant figure in the history of the Visigoths, serving as their king from 410 to 415 AD. Here are some key points about his life and reign:
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Succession: Ataulf succeeded his brother-in-law Alaric I as king of the Visigoths after Alaric's death in 410 AD. Alaric had famously sacked Rome earlier that year, marking a pivotal moment in the decline of the Western Roman Empire.
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Marriage to Galla Placidia: Ataulf married Galla Placidia, the half-sister of the Western Roman Emperor Honorius, in 414 AD. This marriage was an attempt to unite the Visigothic kingdom with the Roman Empire, symbolizing a political alliance. Their son, Theodosius, died in infancy.
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Policy and Strategy: Ataulf initially pursued Alaric's strategy of seeking a formal settlement within the Roman Empire. However, after experiencing Roman resistance and betrayal, he shifted his strategy towards establishing an independent Visigothic kingdom in Gaul.
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Settlement in Gaul: After negotiations with Rome failed, Ataulf led his people across the Rhone River into Gaul, where he established his capital at Narbonne. He aimed to create a new kingdom that would rival Rome, integrating Gothic and Roman elements.
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Death: Ataulf was assassinated in 415 AD in Barcelona by one of his own followers, reportedly due to personal grievances. His death led to internal strife among the Visigoths, with his successor Sigeric quickly taking and then losing the throne.
Legacy
Although Ataulf's reign was short, his marriage to Galla Placidia and his attempt to create a separate Visigothic state were significant in the history of the Visigoths. His policies laid the groundwork for the eventual establishment of the Visigothic Kingdom in Iberian Peninsula under subsequent rulers.
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