Collapse of Rome and Rise of Constantine III

Collapse of the Roman Empire

• By the 5th century, Rome was in decline.
• In 406 AD, Germanic tribes crossed the Rhine, devastating the Western Roman Empire.
• By 410 AD, Roman magistrates were expelled from Britannia, and the Visigoths sacked Rome.

Constantine III's Ascension

• 407 AD: 6,000 legionnaires in Britannia revolt, proclaiming Flavius Claudius Constantinus (Constantine III) as emperor.
• Constantine III was a common soldier, promising wealth and glory to his troops.
• He crossed the channel to Gaul to assert his claim to the Roman throne.

Consolidation of Power in Britannia

• Constantine decided to remain in Britannia, which was a risky move that could lead to assassination.
• Formation of a new senate in Londinium; soldiers became the new class of patricians.
• Vast land grants tied soldiers to the island, with a focus on defense and fortifications.

Military and Administrative Reforms

• Campaigns against local tribes such as Picts, Hibernians, and Germanic tribes.
• Rebuilding of Hadrian's Wall and establishment of a strong navy.
• Romanization of Britannia with monasteries preserving knowledge.

Transition and Rule under Constance II

• Constantine III was succeeded by his son Constance II.
• Despite trade slowdowns, prosperity continued due to lack of centralized Roman taxation.
• Continued Roman immigration to Britannia, viewed as a beacon in a time of darkness.

St. Patrick and Increased Naval Focus

• Hibernian raids led to capture of Patricus (later St. Patrick), leading to a renewed naval focus.
• Coastal fortifications were built to prevent raids from Hibernians and Goths.

Expansion and Internal Conflict under Urus

• Constantine was succeeded by his nephew Urus.
• Conflict within: A conspiracy led by Urus's cousin to overthrow him was thwarted.
• Urus led successful military campaigns against the Picts and other threats.

Legacy and Transformation

• The dynasty of Daconam became the ruling house of Britannia.
• The Romans in Britannia began to be known by a different name – the "Urans."
• The transformation marked a shift from traditional Roman to a new identity in the West.