Belisarius: Conquest of the Vandals

  North Africa was captured by the Vandals in the fifth century, after having once been a prosperous region of the Roman Empire. Under the ferocious leadership of King Geiseric, these Germanic tribes established a formidable kingdom and even attacked Rome. However, the ambitious Emperor Justinian of the Eastern Roman Empire decided to retake this lost region a century later.


The Eastern Roman Expedition:
  A large Eastern Roman expeditionary army, with thousands of soldiers and almost 500 ships, was ready to depart Constantinople in the year 533 AD. Their objective was to take over the Kingdom of the Vandals in North Africa. This part of the Roman Empire was one of the richest provinces until barbarian invaders took it.

Justinian's Mission:
  North Africans were to be freed from Christian heresy and barbarian domination, according to Emperor Justinian's ambitions. His high-ranking general Flavius Belisarius, who had just prevented an internal uprising and preserved the regime, was given this job.

The Rise of the Vandals:
  In the fifth century, the Vandals became Rome's greatest enemy as barbarian invasions toppled the Western Roman Empire. In North Africa, they founded a kingdom and were well-known for their piracy during King Geiseric's rule.

A Shocking Coup:
  Despite their differing religious views, Emperor Justinian first got along well with King Hilderic of the Vandals. But Hilderic's cousin Gelimer took over in 530 AD, imprisoned Hilderic, and publicly opposed Justinian, which infuriated the Emperor.

Preparations for War:
  Despite warnings from his advisors about the dangers of a long-range operation, Justinian was undeterred. He ordered the fleet and army to assemble at Constantinople, placing Belisarius in complete command.

Belisarius' Army:
  Belisarius' force included 10,000 infantry, 5,000 cavalry, 600 Hun mercenaries, and 400 Heruli mercenaries. His army also included his trusted Bucellarii and was composed mainly of hardened veterans from previous wars.

Setting Sail:
  In June 533, the fleet set sail. Belisarius emphasized the importance of discipline, executing two Hun mercenaries who had committed murder to set an example. He reminded his men that justice and divine favor would be their greatest allies.

Challenges at Sea:
  On their journey, the fleet encountered various challenges, including a bout of food poisoning from moldy bread. However, they received fresh supplies from the Goths in Sicily and learned that the Vandals were unaware of their approach.

The Unopposed Landing:
  Belisarius decided to land in the Vandal heartland, unopposed due to the absence of the Vandal fleet, which was dealing with a revolt in Sardinia. However, he punished his men for stealing from the locals, stressing the importance of winning the support of the local population.

Securing Local Support:
  Belisarius sent trusted men to infiltrate the nearby town of Syllectum. The locals, discontented with the Vandal rule, welcomed the Romans. Belisarius' gracious behavior and his troops' discipline won over the Libyan people, allowing the Roman army to advance smoothly.

The Battle of Ad Decimum:
  As Belisarius advanced towards Carthage, he encountered Vandal forces at Ad Decimum. Despite an initial advantage, Gelimer’s grief over his brother Ammatas' death caused him to miss a critical opportunity, allowing Belisarius to regroup and defeat the Vandals.

The Capture of Carthage:
  Belisarius entered Carthage cautiously, ensuring his troops behaved well. The peaceful occupation of the city marked a significant achievement, and Belisarius began to consolidate Roman control over North Africa.

The Final Battle at Tricamarum:
  Reinforced by his brother Tzazo's troops, Gelimer made one last stand at Tricamarum. However, Belisarius' forces prevailed, killing Tzazo and routing the Vandal army. Gelimer fled, and the Roman forces plundered the Vandal camp.

The Surrender of Gelimer:
  Gelimer sought refuge with the Berbers but eventually surrendered due to hunger and the promise of clemency. With North Africa back under Roman control, Belisarius returned to Constantinople with his prisoners and looted.

Triumph in Constantinople:
Despite rumors of ambition, Belisarius convinced Justinian of his loyalty. The Emperor awarded him a triumph, the first for a non-emperor in centuries, and the honorary title of Consul.

A Lasting Legacy:
Belisarius’ campaign, known as the Vandalic War, reclaimed one of the Roman Empire's wealthiest provinces with minimal losses. His success through discipline, diplomacy, and strategic brilliance left a lasting legacy, though challenges and rivalries within the Empire soon beckoned him to new battles.

  As a result of Belisarius' extraordinary accomplishments, Roman rule was reinstated in North Africa and a legendary standard for military strategy and leadership was established. Belisarius' standing as one of history's greatest generals grew as the Eastern Empire readied itself for fresh battles.