Belisarius: Conquest of Italy 

  The Byzantine general Belisarius is often remembered for his strategic brilliance and unyielding determination. His campaign to reclaim Italy for the Byzantine Empire stands out as one of the most dramatic and pivotal moments in history. 
  This article delves into the key aspects of Belisarius's Battle of Italy, illustrating why this confrontation was so significant.


Introduction:
  The 6th century was a pivotal era for the Roman Empire, especially during the reign of Emperor Justinian. A remarkable figure in this period was General Flavius Belisarius, whose tactical brilliance and leadership were instrumental in the reconquest of lost territories, including Italy. 

The Siege of Rome: A Turning Point
  In March 538 AD, the Ostrogoths retreated from their siege of Rome after a year of conflict. This retreat marked a significant moment for Belisarius, who had orchestrated the city's defense. To capitalize on the Goths' withdrawal, he launched a surprise attack as half of their army crossed the Salarian Bridge. The ensuing battle was fierce and chaotic, leading to a bloody victory for the Romans.

  With the Goths in disarray, the Eastern Roman Empire, under Justinian's guidance, sought to reclaim its former glory. The construction of the Hagia Sophia in Constantinople symbolized this resurgence, and Justinian aimed to reunite Italy with the Empire. However, internal conflicts within the Roman ranks would soon complicate this ambitious goal.

The Dilemma in Milan
  Italy's largest city at the time was Milan, not Rome. Its citizens longed for reintegration into the Empire. Responding to the Bishop of Milan's plea, Belisarius sent a contingent to assist them. They achieved a decisive victory against local Goth forces at Ticinum, entering Milan in triumph. However, a new challenge emerged.

  Belisarius faced a critical situation in Ariminum, where General John, his trusted subordinate, was besieged by the advancing Ostrogoths. John's refusal to follow Belisarius's orders to swap troops jeopardized the entire campaign. Instead of sending reinforcements, he chose to bolster his own ranks, leading to a dangerous stalemate.

The Siege of Ariminum
  The Ostrogoths launched a fierce assault on Ariminum, employing a massive siege tower. Despite the Romans' valiant defense, the situation grew dire. John’s insubordination not only endangered his men but also threatened Belisarius's entire strategy in Italy.

  Belisarius had to make a tough decision: risk leaving strong Goth garrisons behind or attempt a rescue mission for John. Ultimately, he chose to send reinforcements, leading to a complex operation that involved multiple forces converging on the besieged city. Fortunately, the plan succeeded, forcing the Goths to retreat to Ravenna.

The Growing Rift
  Despite the successful rescue, tensions mounted between Belisarius and Narses, the Grand Chamberlain and a key advisor to Justinian. Narses had a close relationship with John, which fueled suspicion between him and Belisarius. Procopius noted that they began to regard each other with great distrust.

  As the campaign progressed, the command structure within the Eastern Roman forces became increasingly ambiguous. Belisarius’s authority was undermined, and factions began to form within his ranks, with Narses emerging as a potential rival. This division would have dire consequences for the Roman campaign in Italy.

Strategic Disagreements
  Belisarius proposed a cautious approach, aiming to eliminate Goth strongholds systematically before advancing on Ravenna. Narses, however, advocated for a more aggressive strategy. This internal discord culminated in a split command, with each faction pursuing its agenda.

  Despite this fracture, Belisarius managed to capture Urbino. Meanwhile, Narses sent John to secure Forum Cornelii. However, the situation in Milan deteriorated rapidly.

The Fall of Milan
  By 539 AD, Milan found itself besieged by Uraias, the king’s nephew, supported by a substantial Burgundian force. The Roman garrison, now reduced to just 300 troops and local militia, faced starvation. Belisarius, besieging another stronghold, ordered reinforcements to Milan's aid. Yet, the commanders hesitated, fearing the Burgundian numbers.

  John's refusal to follow Belisarius’s orders ultimately led to a catastrophic outcome. The garrison of Milan, demoralized and starving, surrendered without a fight, leaving civilians to face the wrath of the Goths and Burgundians. The city was plundered, and its populace was massacred or enslaved.

The Consequences of Division
  The destruction of Milan highlighted the dangers of a divided command. Justinian, realizing the gravity of the situation, recalled Narses to Constantinople, restoring Belisarius's authority. However, the damage had been done; the northern regions of Italy were ravaged by two years of conflict.

  As supplies dwindled, famine struck the countryside, leading to widespread suffering among the Italian populace. Procopius's accounts detail the horrific toll of starvation, with many reduced to cannibalism. The situation worsened when King Theodebert of the Franks invaded, only to retreat due to disease and lack of resources.

The Final Assault on Ravenna
  Belisarius continued to besiege the remaining Goth strongholds, eventually starving them into submission. With his rear secured, he set his sights on Ravenna, the Gothic capital. The city’s defenses were formidable, protected by natural barriers and strong fortifications, but the Roman forces were determined.

  As the siege progressed, Belisarius intercepted vital grain shipments meant for the Goths. A mysterious fire broke out in Ravenna’s granary, further weakening the defenders. With desperation mounting, Vitigis sought negotiations with Belisarius, but the terms offered by the Emperor were deemed too generous.

A Shifting Power Dynamic
  Without Belisarius's endorsement, the Goths were suspicious of the treaty. Sensing an opportunity, Goth nobles approached Belisarius with a secret offer to make him Emperor of the West. Belisarius, understanding the precariousness of the situation, swore only to protect the Goths if they surrendered.

  When the gates of Ravenna finally opened, Belisarius entered the city as a hero. He ensured the Goths were treated fairly, but his true motives remained hidden. He had no intention of betraying the Emperor, instead using the Goths' offer to end the war swiftly.

The Aftermath and Betrayal
  Belisarius's triumph was bittersweet. As he prepared to return to Constantinople, he left the Goths feeling deceived. The promise of an imperial crown was never fulfilled, leading to feelings of betrayal among the Goths.

  Upon his return to Constantinople, Belisarius was met with mixed reactions. His rivals ensured that Justinian was aware of the Goths' offer, which painted Belisarius in a suspicious light. However, a greater threat loomed on the horizon.

The Persian Threat
  In a move that could alter the balance of power, Vitigis sent envoys to King Khosrow of Persia, requesting assistance against the Eastern Roman Empire. Justinian, sensing the impending danger, believed only Belisarius could thwart the Persian advance. The stage was set for another chapter in the tumultuous saga of the Roman Empire.

Conclusion
  Belisarius's campaigns in Italy were marked by remarkable military achievements, but also by internal strife and political intrigue. His legacy as one of the greatest generals of the Roman Empire is assured, yet the underlying tensions and betrayals highlight the complexities of leadership during this turbulent period.

FAQs about Belisarius’s conquest of Italy:

1. Who was Belisarius?
    Belisarius was a prominent general of the Byzantine Empire under Emperor Justinian I, known for his military campaigns to reclaim lost Roman territories.

2. When did Belisarius start his campaign in Italy?
    Belisarius began his campaign in Italy in 535 AD.

3. What were some of the major battles Belisarius fought in Italy?
    Notable battles included the Siege of Rome (537-538 AD) and various engagements against the Ostrogothic forces throughout the Gothic War.

4. What was the outcome of Belisarius’s campaigns in Italy?
    By 554 AD, the Byzantine Empire had largely regained control over Italy, although the region faced continued instability in the following years.

5. Why was Belisarius recalled to Constantinople during the war?
    Belisarius was recalled in 540 AD due to political reasons and administrative needs in Constantinople, which temporarily hindered his campaign in Italy.