Arcadius vs Orodes II

Arcadius became the first Eastern Roman emperor following the permanent division of the Roman Empire after the death of Theodosius I. He ruled the East while his brother Honorius ruled the West, establishing the Byzantine Empire.

Rufinus, the powerful Praetorian Prefect and regent for Arcadius, was murdered by Gothic soldiers loyal to the general Stilicho. This event marked the beginning of the influence of court eunuchs and ministers over Arcadius's reign.

The Gothic general Gainas, who had risen to power in Constantinople, rebelled against Arcadius. Gainas occupied the capital but was eventually defeated and killed by the Roman general Fravitta, ending the threat.

Orodes II invaded Armenia and installed his son Pacorus I as king, expanding Parthian influence into the Caucasus. This campaign brought Armenia into the Parthian orbit and set the stage for future conflicts with Rome over the region.

Orodes II's general Surena annihilated a Roman army under Marcus Licinius Crassus at Carrhae in Mesopotamia. Crassus was killed, and the Parthians captured the legionary standards. This victory established Parthia as a major rival to Rome and avenged earlier Roman incursions.

Orodes II ordered the execution of his general Surena shortly after the victory at Carrhae, fearing his growing popularity and power. This act eliminated a capable commander and weakened Parthian military leadership.