Gundobad and the Proclamation of Glycerius as Emperor

On March 3, 473, a significant event unfolded in the Western Roman Empire when Gundobad, a prominent Roman general, proclaimed Glycerius as emperor in Ravenna. This event is a noteworthy episode in the late Western Roman Empire’s history, characterized by political instability and the decline of central authority.

Background

The Western Roman Empire in Decline

By the mid-5th century, the Western Roman Empire was in a state of severe decline. The empire faced continuous invasions by various barbarian groups, internal power struggles, and economic difficulties. The central authority was weakened, and the role of the Roman military and its generals became increasingly pivotal in the political arena.

Gundobad

Gundobad was a powerful military leader and a member of the Burgundian royal family. He was the nephew of Ricimer, a dominant figure in the Western Roman Empire who had effectively controlled the appointment and deposition of emperors. After Ricimer’s death in 472, Gundobad inherited his uncle’s influential position, becoming the magister militum (master of soldiers) and wielding significant power in the empire.

The Proclamation of Glycerius

Glycerius’ Ascension

On March 3, 473, Gundobad proclaimed Glycerius as the new emperor in Ravenna, a city that had become the de facto capital of the Western Roman Empire. Glycerius was a relatively obscure figure before his elevation, serving as a comes domesticorum, a senior military position. His appointment was largely orchestrated by Gundobad, who sought a pliable figurehead to maintain his own influence over the empire.

Political Context

The proclamation of Glycerius was a strategic move by Gundobad to stabilize the Western Roman Empire amidst ongoing threats and to secure his own power. At the time, the Eastern Roman Empire, under Emperor Leo I, had its own interests and candidates for the Western throne, leading to tensions between the two halves of the Roman world.

Aftermath and Historical Significance

Glycerius’ Reign

Glycerius’ reign was short-lived and largely ineffective in reversing the fortunes of the declining Western Roman Empire. He faced challenges from both internal factions and external threats, including the Visigoths and Ostrogoths. His rule ended in 474 when Julius Nepos, backed by the Eastern Roman Empire, invaded Italy and deposed him.

Gundobad’s Legacy

Gundobad’s influence continued after Glycerius’ deposition. He returned to his native Burgundy, where he later became king and played a significant role in the history of the Burgundian Kingdom. His actions during this period exemplify the complex interplay between Roman and barbarian powers in the late empire.

Broader Historical Impact

The proclamation of Glycerius highlights the fragmentation and vulnerability of the Western Roman Empire during its final decades. It underscores the shifting power dynamics where military leaders and barbarian influences increasingly dictated the political landscape. This period set the stage for the eventual fall of the Western Roman Empire in 476, marking the end of ancient Rome and the beginning of the Middle Ages in Europe.

In summary, the proclamation of Glycerius by Gundobad on March 3, 473, is a reflection of the turbulent and transitional era of the late Western Roman Empire, illustrating the decline of imperial authority and the rise of military and barbarian power.