Wamba

Wamba was elected king of the Visigoths after the death of Recceswinth. He was reportedly reluctant to accept the crown, but was persuaded by the nobility and clergy. His reign was marked by military campaigns and efforts to maintain royal authority.

Wamba faced a major rebellion led by Paulus, a Visigothic noble who proclaimed himself king in Septimania (southern Gaul). Wamba led a military campaign, defeated Paulus, and captured him. Paulus was publicly humiliated and executed, demonstrating Wamba's resolve to maintain unity.

Wamba conducted military campaigns against the Basques in the Pyrenees, who had been raiding Visigothic territory. He subdued the region and fortified key positions, securing the northern borders of the Visigothic Kingdom. These campaigns demonstrated his military capability.

Wamba was deposed in a palace coup led by Erwig, a Visigothic noble. According to accounts, Wamba was drugged and tonsured, making him ineligible to rule under Visigothic law. He was forced to retire to a monastery, where he died. This event highlighted the instability of Visigothic succession.