Belisarius: The Last Battle (6/6)

[@EpichistoryTv]

I hope you enjoy the epic finale to our Belisarius series! Thanks to our video sponsor Displate - get exclusive discounts on metal posters, including original EHTV artwork, with this link: displate.com/epichistorytv?art=624c8d2724210. Thank you also to Legendarian for the Total War gameplay footage, Miłek Jakubiec for the brilliant artwork across the series, and Professor David Parnell (@ByzantineProf) for the expert guidance. If you want to find out (and vote on) what we're making next, and get to see it early and ad-free, head over to www.patreon.com/EpicHistoryTV

[@mdmiloy5897]

I love you very much belacareous!

[@mdmiloy5897]

What is your next plan epic history TV please reply!

[@saanon9334]

Are you going to combine the series into one long documentary?

[@magma9000]

Plz make a video on Islamic history

[@thegermanfool8953]

I absolutely enjoyed this

[@thanos_karagiannhs5320]

Belisarius served Justinian more loyally than any other man in his court and gave him glory, fame and power by delivering rome, north Africa and saving the empire from its eastern enemies. Two times life offered Flavius Belisarius a crown and two times he had refused it in favour of his loyalty to Justinian. Yet in war he was a king in his own right. He was truly the last epitome of what the Roman generals of old should have been.

[@johny16G]

Odaenathus must have looked proudly upon him, from the shores of Elysium

[@maxanderson9293]

@@johny16G yeah, that man had saved the Empire but his wife would undo all of that.

[@Cancoillotteman]

@@maxanderson9293 In all fairness she undid it all because she lost, and because Aurelian was so good. Had she somehow prevailed in the Roman civil war, I think it safe to say that the couple would be remembered as "restorers of the world"

[@maxanderson9293]

@@Cancoillotteman unlikely Zenobia, wasn't neither a particular brave or intelligent. Her battles against Aurelian prove as much

[@blairhicks9553]

Agrippa and Augustus a great take of loyalty too

[@Fenniks-]

The message that Belisarius wrote to Totila, having the effect of sparing the eternal city of Rome from destruction was truly chilling. The Epic narration of Charles Nove and the music makes it even more extraordinary.

[@scl9671]

To think that very message all those years ago allows us today to travel and see the might of Rome.

[@Danymok]

I thought the same thing

[@desmondd1984]

That struck me too...it's like he knew the cultural influence that Rome would still have, even 1500 years later.

[@dap1453]

I agree, I thought that was a particularly well produced sequence! Quite moving.

[@Fenniks-]

Massive props to you for consulting this series :)

[@ApexPredatorWithSungGlasses]

Hats off to Belisarius, truly worthy of being the Last Roman.

[@imperfectcell7081]

Roman empire existed until 1453

[@Jean_Jacques148]

Yeah Eastern Rome would have been collapsed without him.

[@antebellumstage]

I would give some credit to Basil II as the last roman

[@marvelfannumber1]

Last Roman? Constantine XI would beg to differ, there's still some 900 years of more Romans after Belisarius lol.

[@neymarmessironaldo5881]

@@marvelfannumber1 The term Last of the Romans (Latin: Ultimus Romanorum) has been used to describe a number of individuals. The first recorded instance was Julius Caesar's description of Marcus Junius Brutus as the one with whom the old Roman spirit would become extinct. Therefore anyone can assume who was the last roman based on his own perspective. I, for example, suggest that Aetius or Stilicho would have been the last of the romans

[@EhAmes94]

I was almost quite literally on the edge of my seat practically cheering out loud at the last great hurrah of Belisarius; what an incredible well done retelling of his life. Truly, hats off to all involved.

[@Cancoillotteman]

I have to admit, he is my favorite historical figure. A true parangon facing fearful odds, one cannot help but feel on his side !

[@onetwothreefourfive12345]

That last battle was so epic. The narration was really brilliant

[@RexGalilae]

Man this series is so well made it made me patriotic towards a dead empire

[@andrewmartinez7559]

​@Cancoillotteman my favorite figure is a famous Austrian painter A.H

[@sirjoey3137]

A rather small battle, but imagine this legendary general is retired for years, only to be called to arms one last time to defend the capital, so badass.

[@NoMoreCrumbs]

Belisarius didn't always win, but he won where it counted more often than not. What an incredible legacy

[@Cancoillotteman]

AND he never betrayed. The best generals who seldom to never lost battles had a nasty tendency to overthrow the power in place (Sulla, Caesar, Aurelian, Napoleon, Pepin the Short, etc)

[@allahuteala438]

Hiç yenilmedi ama

[@skankhunt446]

@@Cancoillotteman caesar wasen't undefeated

[@Cancoillotteman]

@@skankhunt446 "seldom to never". Caesar is in the seldom category.

[@jacobbriscoe7384]

Only defeated by the roman court

[@AnimeWins]

Amazing series, I loved it all and I felt so hyped knowing Belisarius geared up one final time in his 60's and scored a final victory. Truly a legend, thanks so much for telling his story so beautifully!

[@masternobody1896]

you should upload more anime/ marvel cartoon summaries

[@rajasekharathuluru6561]

Do you know one more thing that narses was 73 year old when he conquered italy

[@maxanderson9293]

All, hail Belasarius, the Roman General who defeated all he faced, yet defeated by fate and greed of others.

[@curranlakhani]

Hannibal, Scipio, Suburra, Belisarius. These men performed feats of military genius for their respective states, only to be betrayed by the very state they served. Many a great general can win the battle on the field, but lose the War on the political stage. Many a great general finds out the hard way that their greatest enemies can often come from the "same side"

[@karlcrisostomo418]

Almost the same as Yi Sun Shin. Both betrayed by corrupt government officials.

[@Bullet-Tooth-Tony-]

@@curranlakhani Constantine, Trajan and Aurelian were great too

[@geordiejones5618]

@@Bullet-Tooth-Tony- only auralien was betrayed and that was by an officer bc he was the emperor.

[@prometheusr]

@@curranlakhani Insightful.

[@legendarian4690]

Was an absolute privilege and honor to contribute to this project. I look forward to seeing what other series you guys have in store. Cheers! Mod is 555 Age of Justinian for Total War: Attila

[@kipl8444]

You have done a great job, the footage suits the story amazing!

[@legendarian4690]

@@kipl8444 Thanks, I appreciate it!

[@andreascovano7742]

When are you making your next video? I love your Sassanid series!

[@Captain_Titus3867]

@@legendarian4690 love that mod, and you sir have done an awesome job. Have a sub

[@legendarian4690]

@@andreascovano7742 I'll get back to my own channel very soon, had a lot of irl obligations + this project to deal with first

[@sumedhraosurendramalandkar4056]

A King without a Crown, A General without equals in his time, A Man with Honour - Flavius Belisarius - Indeed a Man worthy of being the Last Roman

[@amazinggaming9870]

The most loyal general and lover of his state-Belsarius

[@napolien1310]

8:50 This dude used scouts so professionally that they knew the dimensions of the two towers and he build a taller one to dumb a whole boat burning on them, WHAT A CHAD. And he destroyed an army with a few hundreds veterans and peasant volunteers.

[@Cancoillotteman]

Belissarius desirves a movie, his life is already scripted, all the way to the last heroic hurrah as an old man, still facing fearful odds

[@napolien1310]

@@Cancoillotteman and the sad part is that I never heard of him until 4-5 years ago. Whenever someone talked about great generals Rome had they list a top 5 and never mentioned him and a couple of time I see people mention him and I was surprised that I've never heard of this guy and some people mention him and then I searched for him and what a man he was.

[@Bullet-Tooth-Tony-]

@@napolien1310 Yeah man he is certainly up there with Caeser and Scipio IMO

[@amazinggaming9870]

He is easily one of the greatest

[@alessandromazzini7026]

@@Bullet-Tooth-Tony- completely agree, he Is top 3 for sure

[@senormoll]

It must be so cool working on a channel where everybody's really bringing their A game. The narration, artwork, music, script...everything is well done.

[@TheManFromWaco]

How many times in Roman history did a general as brilliant and accomplished as Belisarius (or even far less so) *NOT* immediately try to overthrow the Emperor? In some ways, his loyalty is more impressive than his feats at Dara, Ad Decium, and Rome.

[@napoleonibonaparte7198]

Belisarius, the best and loyal general one could ask for.

[@luispereira5177]

one of your mentors in history wasn't he sire?

[@Zyneste]

name a better duo than Emperor Napoleon & the loyal general Belisarius

[@luispereira5177]

@@Zyneste Justinian and Belisarius was has good has it would be Napoleon and Belisarius. Belisariu would have taken St.Petersburg and made the Tsar signed a peace treaty, while Napoleon was doing his part in Moscow.

[@Zyneste]

@@luispereira5177 maybe russia wouldn't have been the target? consoliding the position in europe and stall to strenghten a better navy to face england potentially ? Going Russia feels just like a mistake. Winter cost to much. Easier to do with a trusted general than on your own

[@saaimshah1042]

Reminds me so much of Admiral Yi

[@Nervii_Champion]

The part where Totila spares the city could be because he has honor, or it could be that he didn't want to go down in history as a tyrant. Whatever the case, this is awesome and so is the history of Rome and it's opponents

[@johnnyboy3410]

he wouldn’t be tyrant for razing an enemy city, Alexander wasn’t called tyrant for razing Persepolis, also look up what tyrant means

[@cptbaguette]

@@johnnyboy3410 idk people tend to be biased. Rome seemed to be a generally beloved and respected city, anyone razing it could have been painted as a tyrant

[@PathofPonos]

@@johnnyboy3410 Yeah, but he erased a big part of history as the documents left are mostly from Romans and biased by design...

[@JawsOfHistory]

It's kind of mind-blowing to compare the sizes of the armies of Belisarius compared with the armies of the second Punic wars.

[@EasternRomanHistory]

Something to consider is that one is mainly dealing with Belisarius' campaigning army. Meanwhile, there are around 150,000 troops under Justinian's command stationed around the empire that needed to be equipped, recruited, paid, etc. When one compares armies being fielded in the Punic war, Rome was able to deploy virtually its entire army to the war.

[@Anonymous07192]

@@EasternRomanHistory thank you for the context and love your channel man!!!

[@johnnyboy3410]

Rome had 85k in Cannae and lost 50k of them and still won the war

[@EasternRomanHistory]

@@Anonymous07192 Thank you very much.

[@mrcopycat2355]

Accounts are also exaggerated. Ancient historians are known for that Source: Trust me, dude

[@PhoenixAscending]

Belisarius is one of the most disrespected generals of all time. He was disrespected time and time again, although he saved Justinian's arse time after time. He wins all of those battles in Rome and Italy, and then the Eunuch gets the glory. Ridiculous

[@paprskomet]

Narses do not really deserves to be ridiculed.He was exellent military commander on its own and his qualities were not just about money and more soldiers(both being typically erroneously ascribed to him as the only reason for his victories).And although Belisarius was not given so much praise from the Emperor as he would desrved his credit in public opinion was actually high.He died a very respected and rich man and ironically consequent generations of medieval Romans remembered him more than Justinian.

[@johnnyboy3410]

if they remembered him they would have called him the Great instead of Justinian

[@SolidAvenger1290]

Hence why historians/most people today love Justinian & disrespect Belisarius despite giving these victories to Justinian. In my opinion, Justinian is a very "controversial" figure in Byzantine history. If people took a much deeper approach to analyze everything, they could see how some historians & religious scholars have tried defending Justinian's record. In truth, Belisarius should be known as "The Great" instead of Justinian. Logically, in the end, Justinian's dreams overextended,, and exposed the empire to new threats in the East.

[@SolidAvenger1290]

@@johnnyboy3410 I absolutely agree. Should have taken the title of Western Emperor while Justinian floundered in the East from the Persians' invasion.

[@leestudios9948]

​@paprskomet yes he does. He was the reason why the first Italian campaign nearly ended in disaster.

[@stuart1346]

Fantastic finale. Amazing to think that without him the monuments of Rome may have been completely destroyed, Such a same he was given such a shoestring budget for all his campaigns, no more so than this one. How on earth did the secret history languish in the Vatican for a millennia without anyone noticing?

[@forgottenartefact5462]

Because the Vatican probably did not open its archives.

[@andreascovano7742]

Because most books are not worth copying? A ton of records get mixed up and unless someone wants a specific copy, the book doesnt get rewritten.

[@alexcisneros2980]

@@andreascovano7742 every book is worth copying you dip

[@Jekyll08]

Whether "The Secret History" is truthful or not you certainly can't deny Belisarius' loyalty despite going through accusations and having opportunities to go against Justinian for his own glory. Yeah, it was fruitless to regain the Western Empire because leading up to its fall in 476 it had been beyond its glory days and ability to function, but it made for a great story of accomplishment. Also, John was a pain in the ass.

[@yapzerkon]

Sucks if ur only legacy 1000 years later is that ur known as a pain in the ass

[@yessir7147]

i thought that up until this video. Dude got like 4 sentences in the whole 30 minute vid, and all of them were recounting great victories. he also conquered italy and held it, something belisarius didnt do. he may not have a dick but hes got balls

[@JM-bl3ih]

the secret history sounds just like how many women act today. it is most likely true. i dont like how it is easily brushed off as possible hyperbole. if the secret history is so easily dismissed then so are the accounts that are taken for truth

[@viniciusmartins8733]

@@JM-bl3ih you are right all possibilities must be investigated.

[@viniciusmartins8733]

Idont undertand why john was not fired.

[@schlechtgut8349]

300 years prior rome was able to lead 80k army against dacians while holding to the whole mediterranean and then the mighty belisarius was left with just several thousands

[@porphyry17]

101-102, 105-106 and 534-544 are further apart than 300 years.

[@Billswiftgti]

The enemies got way too many. And I cannot stress this enough.

[@sebastiencz3931]

People always forget that rome's greatest weapon always was its demographics and economic prosperity. Hannibal could beat and destroy two romans armies and Rome still recovered and won. Same with Crassus and later Varus. 6th century eastern roman empire was but a mere shadow of that strength.

[@schlechtgut8349]

@@sebastiencz3931 economy was good in the east as they say though without luxury of constant flow of money from expansion

[@amazinggaming9870]

The plague,hunnic and barbarian invasions depopulated the empire

[@Anonymous07192]

Props to Totila for going back on the idea of leveling Rome to the ground. When it comes to history like this it should be everyone's duty to preserve the greatness of everyone's past so that the future can relive it and learn from it. No matter what your conflict, prejudice or emotions are, the greatness of the past is beyond you and your petty squabbles and should be respected. It's one on the reasons why I believe the sack of Constaninople is one of the most tragic and unforgivable events that has ever happened.

[@ひろゆき二十一]

Tell the supporters of cancel culture about that

[@Halcon_Sierreno]

What about the burning of Hitler's eagle's nest by the allies or the tearing down of the shed where John Wilkes Booth died?

[@secktuss9610]

@@Halcon_Sierreno those are included too

[@rabuliz]

I agree completely

[@danyalahmad1053]

No Tribute is greater than to be still remembered and praised after 1500 years of your death, Rest In Eternal Peace, Flavius Belisarius

[@markopalis6065]

The greatest series on this channel. I' ve also watched most of the other series but every month i've been waiting impatiently for the next episode. Although i know the history of Belisarius and his wars, these narrations and graphics make it easier and more complete for me. Thank you Epic History! Now next for me would be a history of the warrior emperors of ERE: Nikephoros Phokas, Tzimiskes, and Basil dhe Second. They took ERE again to great lengths and they were also great generals. Its my wish and i hope you can make that wish come true for me! Thank you once more!

[@marvelfannumber1]

Dude, I'd love to see a series on Phokas and Tzimiskes, those guys had some mad exploits and absolutely deserve the documentary treatment given how little attention they (unfortunately) get.

[@markopalis6065]

@@marvelfannumber1 exactly. Kings and Generals started a series about them but is unfinished. So i thought that maybe we could get one good series about them here.

[@Daniel_Doce275]

everything about this series was utterly stellar, the narration, art, music, visuals, script, narrative, research, editing, everything was movie quality, Godbless the epic history tv team

[@Captain_Titus3867]

Belisarius’s back must look like a crater because he literally carried this ungrateful by himself. Caesar, Aurelian, Tragin ,Hadrian ect. would’ve been proud of this man’s accomplishments and definitely deserved the total of “The Last Roman”. This man is a legend.

[@211pirate6]

I had known of the greatness of Belisarius, but he now commands my eternal respect, gratitude, and favor for saving Rome from Totila. Goosebumps from words written centuries ago.

[@thehistorybard6333]

This series is utterly spectacular, Ive loved every second. Thankyou so much for this fantastic content EHTV!

[@dean4051]

28:47 When Belisarius' epic theme music plays for the last time in the series. Chills!

[@jonathanflores9991]

This felt like a movie.... 👍 this has to be one the best series I have seen and it makes me sad that it ends.

[@charleslarrivee2908]

The only KZbin documentary of Justinian and Belisarius I've seen that comes close to the detailed coverage, length, and emotional power of this one is Extra Credits' one, and that was six years ago (and also Belisarius was a supporting character, albeit an important one). Well done once again Epic History, I look forward to seeing what you have in store for us the rest of the year.

[@SolidAvenger1290]

Well, don't forget Flash Point History with their personal take on Justinian & their entire Byzantium series.

[@misterpikes7600]

What a series that was. Really exited to watch and really looking forward to new ones

[@rennor3498]

Even in death Justinian's problems did not end there,with his tomb desecrated by the chaos known as the Fourth Crusade. It's been said when the Crusaders opened his tomb they found his body intact and unscaved by decay,regardless that didn't stop them from plundering it of it's riches,chopping it into pieces,and throwing his remains into the Bosphorus. And most people to this day credit Flavius Aetius as" The last of the Romans" despite never achieving the same level of military success as either Justinian or Belisarius.

[@zyracxes9333]

Oh my, those savages, why you would do that with a body? And I agree about the two mostly about Belisarius, I know Europe give birth to many military genius as the most well know of them as, Alexander the Great, Caesar, Trajan, Napoleon and a few other, but in my book no one of them shine brighter than Flavius Belisarius he was a military genius, and above all an honorable man that prove he is more than a general, a true leader worthy of King Arthur reputation. All those other where arrogant and full of themself, but Belisarius was humble and loyal, a true man as all of us should aspire to be. And when you think he achieve so much with so less being surrounded by stupid people who refuse to follow his advise, or with a Emperor like Justinian that refuse to help him with all he needs because he fear he will take his throne.

[@adrianocarvalho6113]

What a horrendous act the Crusaders did.

[@rennor3498]

@@adrianocarvalho6113 Money does not need a voice to persuade humanity into commiting some of the most horrendous acts in the process of acquiring it. And we have the Venetians to thank for that.

[@theemirofjaffa2266]

@@rennor3498 why the Venetians though?

[@Billswiftgti]

@@theemirofjaffa2266 they were well known for it

[@user-nkmaretsik]

Flavius Belisarius was, when I was a child and still is one of my favorites figures of late antiquity. He was a great mixture of military skill, diplomacy and use of tricks tactics over raw might. I used to believe like most that the late roman army was lesser to his principate counterpart, now I understand what you show in this series very well and the channel Invicta also show it in its series Avenging Varus. Rome yes was a great power but his enemies were anything but cavemen, they were also good tacticians, organisers and when it comes to the Sassanids a mortal enemy. So the army of Belisarius was a more complex, mobile and adaptable version because the arm race force them to be more of all. And if you lacked the know how, you would be for trouble. That is why generals like Belisarius and others before like Aetius and Constantine the great and after him like Maurice and Heraclius were so dominate. In a more complex game of war the skilled commanders are both necessary but also a great threat or a source of envy. All in all the series was excellent my second favorite of yours after the Napoleonic Wars.

[@Sealdeam]

Narses deserves lots of credit for his victorious campaign in Italy but it is a shame that Belisarius could not be given even half of the forces that later were given to Narses when he needed them, imagine what he could had once again achieved with that much needed support, if Belisarius had not been always an stalwart example of loyalty he surely would had followed the example of many subsequent generals like George Maniakes, Thomas the Slav and Alexios Branas who tried to usurp the throne, few people in history had been as fortunate as Justinian to have some of those immense capacities in their service.

[@andreaspitsinis255]

Don't have a clue why I was so touched by this narration, maybe I secretly wished it ended differently, maybe I became attached to the characters and rooted for them, maybe because I know 1500 years later it was all in vain for Eastern Rome, the story telling was superb, Procopius and the narrator brought these people back to life I was literally on the edge of my seat...and I learned something new, didn't know Rome was about to be demolished nor did I know that it had been completely abandoned. Wild...

[@whollibaugh]

An amazing story and beautifully dictated. Hopefully one day I can physically own (or download, to then put on disc) the stories of Belisarius, Napoleon, Russia & whatever history Epic History TV creates. The content will age well. And I am certian that hundreds of years from now, when historians study your work, it will be viewed with much favor.

[@ancienthistorytube1921]

Belissarius would have pulled it off in Italy, despite Justinian's lack of support, despite the worthy Totila, despite the storms and other misfortunes. But the 3 stooges John, Isaac, and Bessas were just too much even for the brilliant commander to overcome. Great video once more. The illustrations are fantastic.

[@theodorospadelidis6537]

i own greek cultural tradtional historical discord server if you want to join send me your discord or email

[@jruth77]

You can even argue Narses was the 4th stooge

[@aliasdimitri]

The “Last Roman” that Rome needed, but did not deserve. May the virtues of Belisarius be remembered for all mankind.

[@stevenpaddybwoy]

This channel is so underrated, every one of these videos on belisarious is a masterpiece and I’m utterly grateful for all your labours.

[@ahmadsamamah5867]

Many thanks to this channel, which introduced us to one of the greatest Roman generals and the details of his military and political life.

[@aliosman0]

I'm left breathless and have no words to say. Amazing storytelling, spectacular in every sense. Glad I have come across this channel.

[@jdoe3006]

One of my all-time favorite generals. Skilful, a charismatic leader, and above all, a loyal and a good man.

[@halbarad6924]

There was never a more Roman response than to see a tall tower on the river, and respond by building an even taller mobile floating tower to counter it.

[@ryanelliott71698]

I still say Justinian’s reign should be made into a tv show. I basically has everything.

[@SolidAvenger1290]

Well, I prefer a series/movie on Emperor Aurelian's successful attempt (later death by corruption) to restore the empire. Justinian still is a very controversial figure in Late Antiquity behind the scenes in many public circles, even without Procopius's recounts or how mainstream historians keep referring to him as the "Great" for purely religious reasons & NOT his military success, all purely due to Belisarius's military command. Recommend watching Flash Point's Byzantine series on Justianian's legacy. Belisarius should be one getting a series & an arc that is similar to how Aurelian, Majorian, Heraclius, and Alexious I Kommenos restored elements of Roman influence & prestige to a better degree them Justinian. Yet, our current cultural & entertainment leaders (purely in Hollywood)would instead focus on the controversial & evil Roman emperors in known history then the good underrated ones.

[@glenn_r_frank_author]

An incredible finale and series! Thank you for bringing history like this to life!

[@DisHappah]

I have watched this series 3 times already. its sooo good. i cant get enough. thank you Epic History!

[@turtleking9999]

??? Why are you watching the same content multiple times???

[@DisHappah]

@@turtleking9999 why not?

[@robowisanveithasung6022]

@@turtleking9999 nothing wrong with that

[@justlikeme2797]

You know Belasarius is a bad ass when he just sent a letter to the enemy and threatened him if he destroyed Rome monument he will show no mercy then the enemy comply with his request.

[@sverr0r]

Man, that last battle for the gateless portal to the husk of City of Rome would have been a haunting sight - such a unique event of principle, history and glories past momentarily reconquered, by the last perfect example of the greatness that made it. For all his otherworldly achievments of ancient warrior code, one can't help but ponder that Belisarius, at the end, might have echoed the sentiments of the Vandal king he robbed of North Africa - all great achievments are eventually in vain. At least we're left with some stunningly clear mental pictures of what life could be like, some 1500 years ago - amazing. Thanks so much for this - I always wondered about the divide of the Roman Empire's warrior tradition, as it shifted core eastwards from the place that gave it birth.

[@scl9671]

Thank you to all who worked on this series!

[@waliahmed6]

This series has been insanely Entertaining to watch brilliant production as always

[@adamh.4933]

That letter to Totila was amazing

[@FlashPointHx]

This is so well done ! Love your artwork

[@andreascovano7742]

Hey Flash point! Love your videos!

[@FlashPointHx]

@@andreascovano7742 Thanks!

[@jozzieokes3422]

@@FlashPointHx love your vids

[@Fenniks-]

Agreed his artwork is amazing. Also hello good to see you here :)

[@FlashPointHx]

@@Fenniks- Hello Fenniks!

[@guitarguy310]

It is absolutely brilliant that Epic History TV showed the passage of time. Belisarius' beard and tired expression, Justinian's elderly look -- astonishing.

[@Hoagsgalaxynetwork]

Thanks for doing this series! Ever since I first learned about Belisarious about 8 years ago he’s been cemented as my favorite general from history. It was great to see his story in a well made documentary.

[@NapoleonBonaparte05]

Thank you so much for making social studies seem hella cool. I dont know who else could make such good doctumentaries

[@torch_k8110]

Amazing finale for this incredible series! Thanks for showing how extraordinary he was at the art of war

[@111dogger]

There is no other channel like EHTV. Hands down the best channel to watch and learn history. I have watched every single video EHTV has released and i can't wait to watch more.

[@theodorosgkountoulidis2385]

Unbelievable series. Great job as always EHTV! Can't wait for the video on the 1848 revolutions. Wish that would be a series as well, as there's so much to be covered.

[@yuribrito1504]

Great video! Byzantine rule in Italy, unfortunately for Constantinople, did not last long. Byzantine rule was only long lasting in Southern Italy (Mezzogiorno), more precisely in Sicily, Calabria, Basilicata and Puglia. The Exarchate of Ravenna (Εξαρχάτο της Ραβέννας), which was created in 584 by emperor Maurice (582-602), was unable to protect the Byzantine possessions in Italy for long. By the end of the 6th century AD, Italian unity under Constantinople's control, in MY historical analysis, no longer existed. During the reign of Justin II (565-578), who was Justinian's successor, the Lombards invaded Northern Italy for the first time. In 569, the Lombards conquered Mediolanum (Milan). In 572, Pavia, which became the capital of the Lombard Kingdom, was also captured. Florentia (Florence) itself, lastly, was captured in 570. The Exarchs Decius/Δέκιος (584-585), Smaragdus/Σμαράγδος (585-589), Romamus/Ρωμανός (589-596), and Callinicus/Καλλίνικος (596-603), who were the first four Exarchs of Ravenna, could not stop the overwhelming Lombard expansion. By the end of the 6th century, the Exarchate of Ravenna only controlled Sicily (Σικελία), which had been under Byzantine control since the invasion carried out by Belisarius in 535; Calabria (Καλαβρία), which was also seized by Belisarius' troops; Basilicata (Lucania), Puglia (Απουλία), more precisely the current provinces of Lecce, Taranto, Bari and Brindisi; Lazio (Latium), which was part of the Byzantine Duchy of Rome (Rome had been under Byzantine control since 537, when Belisarius' troops captured the city); Umbria (including Perugia), parts of Marche (including Ancona and Pesaro), Liguria (at least until 640), and, lastly, a tiny part of present-day Emilia-Romagna; where Ravenna served as the capital of the Imperial Exarchate. The regions of Piedmont, Lombardy (including Pavia and Milan), Veneto, Tuscany (including Florence), and parts of Campania (including Naples), on the other hand, were captured by the Lombards. Liguria, for example, was completely lost in 640. Campania and Naples, meanwhile, were seized by the Lombard Duchy of Benevento. In 840, during the rule of Duke Sergius I, the Duchy of Naples became definitely independent from Constantinople. In fact, Naples had been under papal suzerainty since 753; when Duke Stephen II switched his alliance from Constantinople to Rome. In 740, the Exarchate of Ravenna only controlled Rimini, Ravenna, Perugia and the so-called Pentapolis; which included the cities of Fano, Rimini (its capital), Pesaro, Ancona and Sinigaglia. The Exarchate eventually fell in 751, when the last Exarch, Eutychius (Ευτύχιος), was deposed by the Lombards. In 756, Pope Stephen II claimed the Exarchate. Pepin the Short, king of the Franks, donated the lands of the former Exarchate to the Papacy in 756; laying the foundation of the Papal States. After the dissolution of the Exarchate of Ravenna, only Southern Italy came under Byzantine control (which would soon be threatened by the Arabs). The Byzantine Theme (province) of Sicily (Θήμα Σικελίας), which also included Calabria, was invaded by the Arabs in 827. Syracuse itself, the capital of the province, was seized in 878. Palermo, which became the capital of the Muslim Emirate of Sicily, was conquered in 831. The Catepanate of Italy (Κατεπανίκιον Ιταλίας), which included all of Calabria, Basilicata and Puglia, was conquered by the Normans in 1071. The Catepanate of Italy (965-1071), whose capital was Bari, was the last Byzantine territory in Italy. After Bari was captured by the Normans in April 1071, Byzantine authority in Italy definitely ended; five centuries after the campaigns carried out by Justinian and Belisarius. In my historical analysis, the Byzantines lost Italy as fast as they conquered it.

[@theodorospadelidis6537]

i own greek cultural tradtional historical discord server if you want to join send me your discord or email

[@Morunic777]

oh my god😥 Belisarius story as a mighty general is truly inspiring and encouraging. Both Belisarius and Marcus Aurelius are the truest Roman in history, both legendary in deed and stature that no one can ever match in the Roman world. Truly wonderful! thank you EPIC HISTORY TV for showing his story. Truly, FORTUNE FAVORS THE BOLD!

[@mattturner3303]

Imagine what he could have done as a commander if he had proper financing, adequate supplies and troops for his campaigns. Loved the series!

[@undeadalex4579]

imagine him in late roman republic teaming up with caesar

[@SolidAvenger1290]

@@undeadalex4579 alongside Aurelian, who single handily restored the Empire in the 3rd century

[@DesertAres]

A stellar human being who did the best with the meager forces and lack of complete command. His generalship is among the best in the western world. I’m sure it was a horrible time to be emperor too. Constant wars on major fronts which never go away requiring heavy taxes. The plague affecting more settled populations than wandering tribes and reducing number of available soldiers. Italy must have been ripe for the picking after all this but not of any great treasure, food, or population. Just control of a barren wasteland. Thank you for your work on the little known but truly great general.

[@Aelxi]

It has been a great series. Thank you for your hard work Epic History TV.

[@josuealbertoayala4472]

Gotta say for a documentary It feels more like a novel and a story of loyalty, treason, pride, and victory It definitely deserves a subscription

[@iantomlinson1978]

I've got to say, thank you for this series. It's been eye opening and incredibly good work. So thank you.

[@GrandMoffTarkinsTeaDispenser]

We owe to Belisarius the existence of the city of Rome itself. Long live The Last Roman!

[@EnEvighet7]

Well, if the Romans hadn't devastated Italy in the first place, the Goths would not have become vengeful. Also, Roman aggressions left the city deserted in the end anyway.

[@אהלןסהלן]

​​@@EnEvighet7 Sorry if the question sounds ignorant, but do the Romans and Goths share an ancestor?

[@EnEvighet7]

@@אהלןסהלן They are both indo-european, but that's quite far back.

[@just-in-time-4u845]

I could have read on Wikipedia how it all ended, but I waited for this video to find out. It was worth the wait!

[@wizardpv1]

Greatest Roman general ever. More series like this please. You did epic job

[@pog-ify9738]

Yo this is the coolest cinematic stuff I've seen! Bravo Epic History TV!👌

[@ed7590]

This is my favorite history series I've ever seen, you have really done justice to a man who otherwise doesn't get his fair dues in history. What incredible achievements he had, thank you for these fantastic videos.

[@matyaspavlik3273]

Maybe it is because I´m just tired after a long week, but this video literaly brought me to tears. Great job guys!

[@max-fs8ni]

The time and effort going into each of these videos is not going unseen! Absolutely amazing content keep it up. 👍

[@alexleonard3561]

What a series... Belisarius, the unsung, brilliant general. There should be a movie about him!

[@ProtoxxGaming]

What an incredible series. Thank you for all the effort you put in your videos!

[@jaroslavsklenak212]

Jesus...what Agathias writes about Belisarius putting on his uniform once more sends chills down my spine Thank you Epic history and Mr. Parnell for giving tribute to a loyal and honorable man :)

[@ronanmoore9562]

Fantastic series. The passion for the history and individual human stories here is self evident, really adds that extra flare to the narration and presentation. I would be very keen to see an Epic History series on the early Arab or Seljuk conquests in the future, as I know very little about them.

[@cpurssey982]

I've been waiting with bated breath for this! Needless to say, I was not disappointed. Bravo EHTV 👏🏼.

[@VRichardsn]

What an exhilataring finale. I could barely contain my emotions seeing the old Belisarius, going into battle one last time to save the empire, surrounded by just a rag tag band of civilians and a few hundred aging veterans. You have, once more, showed mastery in your craft. Bravo.

[@luisdoyer3260]

Barbarians at the gates Belisarius: *sigh*here we go again.

[@Zyneste]

Amazing story telling, visuals and sound effects as usual! Thank you for such quality content. Cannot wait for future past stories that has shappen our world.

[@gauravmalltarlok5354]

Amazing! Was just rewatching the series in wait for this episode. And the upload was so unexpected. Great work as always, keep it up!

[@Cadence733]

Fantastic series on a general I knew basically nothing about. Astounding that most of the obstacles he had to overcome were not from the enemy but rather the envy and selfish ambition of his peers.

[@apollodivine]

Every time this channel posts a new video I stop whatever I’m doing to watch it. Keep it up Epic History 🙏🏼

[@randomuser6175]

Ironically, the reason Roman culture and influence disappeared in the Italian peninsula is because Justinian destroyed the Goths. Goths lived so long with Romans side by side, they basically became Romans at that point (or the next best thing). After they were chased from Italy and Eastern Rome eventually pulled back, no one left to keep the culture and traditions alive. Lombards swooped in and Italy turned into something else.

[@SolidAvenger1290]

In the end, Justinian did the opposite of his intentions for Italy. Instead of being the "Great" one to reclaim Rome, he utterly destroyed the last semblance of the Roman Empire. An "Administrator" whose reckless actions and rivalry with the growing Goths/the early papacy in Roma per his Eastern Ordoxdox religious beliefs made it more impossible to restore the Roman world after the Lombards (later Franks) dominated the Italian landscape.

[@irollneed]

Thank you so much for this AMAZING series! I believe Napoleon's and this one must be the best ones you've made! I also want to point out that I was a victim of the 18th century's story of the beggar Belisarius, it's good to know that it might not be true at all, as it made no sense! Keep up the good work! :D

[@LiveinReykjavik]

This is, without a doubt, the best ever historical series I have ever seen in my life. The music and the narration are mind-boggling. Thank you so much!

[@JORDANMARC1]

I love this series I’m a huge Roman fan and I’d never heard of him before this series which is surprising so I hope there will be more please make more, well done

[@KHK001]

An amazing series! Thanks for your hard work EHTV!

[@Rx78gil]

Beautiful, just beautiful. He's my personal hero and a person that deserves the title of "Last of the Romans".

[@paprskomet]

Which is pretty weird title.

[@EasternRomanHistory]

Brilliant video! As much as this is Belisarius' series I think Narses often gets characterised as a villain despite being just as loyal and capable as Belisarius. Of the men that came after him, I can think of two that were dubbed a 'Belisarius' John Kourkouas and Alexios Philanthropenos. It just goes to show how respected he was.

[@chappyhall6682]

Thank you guys for continuously making outstanding content, this was an amazing series and I can't wait for what's next!

[@Giorgi.Koberidze]

Thank you for this astonishing documentary. The era of Justinian really fascinates me.

[@Spartakus-1-]

I am proud as a Greek Thracian to hail from a city (Stenimachos) near Beisarius´ birthplace. He was a Thracian like me and he fought for the glory of the Empire and the Christian faith against innumerous barbarians.

[@Spartakus-1-]

I reported for harassment the comment from the locomotive. This person has not any historical knowledge at all. According to Wikipedia Belisarius was born in Germen, a town in Thrace near Orestiada, in present-day Greece. There is the homeland of the Thracians. Recently, I did a DNA test and I confirmed my Thracian genetic heritage and that is why I am proud of Belisarius and Spartakus who were Thracians. Moreover, there was never any Thraco-Illyrian linguistic group. The Thracian Language had Satem features, which you can not find in the Illyrian language. According to Wikipedia new publications argued that no strong evidence for Thraco-Illyrian exists, and that the two language-areas show more differences than correspondences (Vladimir Georgiev, Ivan Duridanov, Eric Hamp, et al.). The Thracians were the brother nation of the Greeks according to Herodotus and he was scientifically correct. Belisarius was a Latin speaking historical person, but genetically he belonged to the Greek Thracian ethnos. The locomotive supports analogically in simple words that the African Americans in the USA are Englishmen, because the USA was originally a British colony and because they speak English. He does not make any sense at all.

[@giannisv.4472]

@@locomotivebearingdown5381 you have serious issues you should have them checked

[@shantanusingh6054]

What an incredible and astonishing work and narrator voice just brings characters in real form .. Kudos to the whole team of Epic history to who made us familiar to the forgotten legend and the gratest general of his time!

[@paprskomet]

...I'm sort of angry on all those who needed this series to first learn about Belisarius.You should have know about him even without it.

[@adamkaneshiro]

Thanks to Belisarius i was able to visit Rome and see all of the monuments that were spared destruction. The pen can truly be mightier than the sword! If only more people understood and valued his contributions to history!

[@johnnyboy3410]

my guy the city was obviously was gonna get rebuilt, most of things were lost or renovated, I’ll give him credit for the Colosseum though, I doubt that was gonna be rebuilt

[@javitotito]

This series is one of the best things I've seen on KZbin. Thank you I didn't know about Belisarius and this time.

[@sohamdeshpande8732]

Great video sad to hear the series is ending Belisarius a name would remembered for the symbol of loyalty and a great general Thanks for such a great series Epic history tv ❤️

[@Eazy-ERyder]

Belisarius' second campaign was ended NOT👎 in failure. He retook Sicily, the Roman lands of Italia and then the capital city before being recalled to the far EAST in an emergency situation against the Parthians. It was due to HIM that the Ostrogoths were a finished tribe by the time Italy again had to be reconquered

[@jonathanflores9991]

This story being lost to father time would have been terrible. I'm so glad that it was preserve. For sure history of the wars will go on the book shelf.

[@zaelkaja3210]

ONE OF THE BEST HISTORY CHANNELS , AND AS A HISTORIAN CAN ASSES THE TRUTHFULLNESS AND THE CORRECTNES OF HISTORICAL EVIDENCE PRESENTED IN ALL EPIC HISTORY TV EPISODES, A HYGE PRAISE FOR THE CREATOR NARRATOR AND I HOPE YOU CONTINUE YOUR DISTINGUISHED WORK. YOU/RE A EXPAMLE TO FOLLOW FOR ALL !!!! THANK YOU