Attila the Hun

Attila launched a major invasion of the Eastern Roman Empire, crossing the Danube and sacking cities in the Balkans. The Romans were forced to pay tribute and cede territory. This established Attila as a major threat to Rome.

Attila's Huns fought a coalition of Romans and Visigoths led by Aetius and Theodoric I in Gaul. The battle was indecisive but halted Attila's advance into Gaul. Theodoric was killed. Attila withdrew from Gaul.

Attila invaded Italy, sacking Aquileia and other cities. He forced the Roman emperor Valentinian III to flee Ravenna. The invasion was stopped by a delegation led by Pope Leo I, who negotiated Attila's withdrawal.

Attila died suddenly on his wedding night to a Germanic princess named Ildico. The cause was likely a hemorrhage or alcohol poisoning. His death led to the rapid disintegration of the Hunnic Empire.