Who were the Goths and how did they impact the Roman Empire?

The Goths were a group of Germanic tribes that played a significant role in the history of the Roman Empire, particularly during its decline. They are especially noted for their military incursions into Roman territories. Over time, violence and conflict with the Goths, as well as other invasions by various barbarian tribes, contributed to the weakening of Roman authority and the eventual fall of the Western Roman Empire.

Their migrations and raids in the 3rd and 4th centuries put enormous pressure on the Roman military and resources. The most famous event involving the Goths was the sack of Rome in 410 CE led by Alaric I, the leader of the Visigoths, which marked a significant point in the decline of Roman power. Furthermore, the settlement of the Ostrogoths in Italy and the establishment of Gothic kingdoms within former Roman territories further exemplified their impact.

While the other choices mention groups or categories that did not directly impact the Roman Empire in a way comparable to the Goths, the Goths’ actions were foundational to the transformation of Europe and laid the groundwork for the emergence of medieval European kingdoms.