Ricimer

Ricimer rose to supreme military command after the collapse of Valentinian III’s dynasty. Unable to claim the imperial office himself, he exercised power through emperors whom he supported, constrained or removed, including Majorian, Libius Severus and Anthemius.

Ricimer’s long dominance illustrates the transfer of effective power from Western Roman emperors to military strongmen during the empire’s terminal political crisis. Ricimer is generally dated to c. 405–472.

Ian Hughes’ Patricians and Emperors begins with the final consequences of Aëtius’s death and follows the careers of Avitus, Majorian and the generals who attempted to preserve authority in Gaul, Italy, Spain and Africa. Particular attention is given to Ricimer, whose control of the army allowed him to support, constrain and depose successive emperors.