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In the last few posts we have been exploring the period at the end of the Roman Empire. I plan to continue down this road until we have laid it all out and analyzed it using several posts. It remains for us to discuss the reasons for the fall, the impact of Christianity on the empire, and the transition of Europe to the Dark Ages.

This post is narrow by design, intended to make a single point about the Roman army and its commanders. In the narrative below I have constructed a chronology of the last ninety years of the empire. Each commander who is German has his name in bolded text. You will see for yourself how the Germans permeated the Roman military.

This development blurs the definition of the “end of the empire” because if the Germans were commanding a Roman army of Germans, weren’t they essentially controlling Rome? The emperors from Honorius on were puppets.

I also want to mention once again the attitude of the Goths toward Rome, which was essentially respectful. The Goths wanted to settle in more fertile areas south of the Alps and sought peaceful coexistence with the empire. It was only when Rome offended them repeatedly (as in 410 A.D.) that they became more militant. The Goths fought for Rome many more times than they fought against Rome.

The Vandals, of course, are another story – we named wanton destruction after them.

Disney Do-Over: Mouse House Hits Pause on DEI
Trigger warnings also get benched in company's latest woke backpedal

Disney, one of the most woke corporate companies in America, continues to backpedal from its hard-Left posture.

Disney CEO Bob Iger vowed in 2023 to steer the company away from its Culture War fixation. one that saw the beloved brand declare war on Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis.

Iger’s stance sounded dubious given all that we had learned about the new Mouse House. This viral video clip may have said it best.

Rod Serling's career reached new heights with the creation of the iconic anthology series, which first aired in 1959. This groundbreaking show distinguished itself from contemporary television by incorporating elements of science fiction, horror, and fantasy, allowing Serling to explore complex social issues and human nature through imaginative storytelling. He not only crafted compelling narratives but also served as the show's charismatic on-screen narrator, guiding viewers through a mysterious realm where "anything can happen." The series ran until 1964 and heralded a new era in television, establishing Serling as a pioneering figure in the sci-fi genre.

The couple welcomed two daughters, Jodi and Anne, into their lives. Anne, in her memoir "As I Knew Him: My Dad, Rod Serling," reflects on the unique way her father's hectic schedule shaped their family dynamic. She fondly recalls that despite the hours he spent writing, she never felt his absence acutely. Instead, she knew that her father was always there for her when she needed him, illustrating Serling's profound dedication to his family. This balance, created with Carol’s support, was vital during his illustrious yet demanding career in the entertainment industry.

Bugsy Siegel, born Benjamin Siegel on February 28, 1906, in Brooklyn, New York, became a significant figure in American organized crime. The son of Jewish immigrants, Siegel's early life was steeped in the criminal underbelly of Williamsburg, where he formed crucial alliances with notorious gangsters, including Meyer Lansky. Together, they established the Bugs-Meyer Gang, responsible for various illegal pursuits, including bootlegging and contract killings under the notorious code name Murder, Inc. Siegel's explosive temperament earned him the nickname "Bugsy," cementing his reputation as a volatile yet prominent player in the Mafia world, particularly during the volatile 1920s and 1930s.

In the early 1930s, Siegel's violent temperament earned him the nickname "Bugsy," and he became a significant operative for the New York Mafia, particularly under the wing of kingpin Charles "Lucky" Luciano. His pivotal role in the assassination of Sicilian gangster Joe "the Boss" Masseria in 1931 solidified his position in the ranks of organized crime. By the late 1930s, Bugsy transitioned to the West Coast, bringing his bootlegging and gambling enterprises to California. There, he expanded his influence through various criminal activities, establishing a luxurious lifestyle that intertwined with Hollywood's elite, setting the stage for his ambitious venture into Las Vegas and the creation of the Flamingo Hotel and Casino.

Siegel's murder was not simply the end of a life; it was a signal of the changing tides within the criminal underworld. As one of the original architects of the Las Vegas gambling scene, his violent demise represented a pivotal moment in the consolidation of power among mobsters, particularly as they sought to transform Las Vegas into the gambling capital of the nation. While his death stirred intrigue and speculation, it also highlighted the volatile nature of mob life where loyalty could swiftly turn to animosity. To this day, Bugsy Siegel remains a legendary figure in the annals of organized crime, forever marking the history of Las Vegas.

Thomas Wolfe was born on October 3, 1900, in Asheville, North Carolina, to a stonecutter father and a mother who managed a boardinghouse. This unique upbringing in a close-knit community influenced much of his literary work. After completing his early education at a private preparatory school, Wolfe enrolled at the University of North Carolina in 1916. Here, he began to cultivate his passion for writing, engaging not only in literary pursuits but also participating in the theatrical scene by penning and performing one-act plays.

Following his initial success, Wolfe received a Guggenheim Fellowship and published several more works, including "Of Time and the River" and "You Can't Go Home Again". Each of these novels continued to explore themes of identity, belonging, and the human condition, showcasing his ability to weave complex narratives that reflect both personal and universal experiences. Wolfe's tumultuous relationship with his editor, Maxwell Perkins, and the conflicts that arose during his writing process only added to the intrigue surrounding his life and work. Despite his tragic early death in 1938, Wolfe left an indelible mark on American literature, influencing countless writers and securing his legacy as one of the nation’s most important authors.

Despite these struggles, Wolfe's literary contributions have since flourished in value, with many of his works considered classics of American literature. Posthumous publications and the subsequent critical re-evaluation of his work have increased his relevance and influenced contemporary authors, adding to his lasting legacy. Today, Wolfe's works command higher prices in the market, and his net worth, when calculated posthumously, reflects the enduring impact of his literary genius.

In 1740, Kant began his formal education at the University of Königsberg as a theology student. However, his interests soon shifted towards mathematics and physics, demonstrating his early inclination towards the sciences. In 1746, following the death of his father, Kant faced financial hardships and took on the role of a private tutor for wealthy families, which he did for nearly a decade. During this period, he also published several scientific papers that examined the interplay between rationalism and empiricism, showcasing the beginnings of his philosophical inquiry and establishing his intellectual foundation.

Immanuel Kant's return to the University of Königsberg in 1755 marked a pivotal turning point in his intellectual journey, culminating in the attainment of his doctorate in philosophy. Over the next 15 years, he honed his teaching skills as a lecturer on metaphysics and logic, systematically developing his ideas that would later shape Western philosophy. His academic contributions during this period included critical analyses that bridged rationalism and empiricism, positioning him as a formidable scholar committed to addressing the intricate workings of human cognition and understanding.

Despite his solitary lifestyle, Kant was not completely isolated. He maintained friendships with fellow philosophers and intellectuals of his time, engaging in discussions that helped to shape his ideas. However, his personal life was largely homogeneous and predictable, defined by a strict regimen that included daily walks and devoted study hours. This consistent routine not only facilitated his prolific output as a philosopher but also shaped the rigid structure of his philosophical arguments, particularly regarding ethics and the nature of human understanding, which emphasized rationality above emotional or subjective considerations.

Immanuel Kant, the influential 18th-century philosopher, notably contributed to the realm of academic income through his role as a professor at the University of Königsberg. After obtaining his doctorate in philosophy in 1755, he spent 15 years as a lecturer before becoming a full professor in 1770. His academic position provided him with a stable income, which allowed him to pursue his extensive research and writing. Kant's dedication to education and philosophy not only shaped his financial standing but also fortified his reputation as one of the foremost thinkers of his time.

What is the categorical imperative?

Kant introduced the concept of the categorical imperative as a cornerstone of his ethical theory. It posits that moral obligations must be universal and rational, asserting that an action is only moral if it could be willed as a universal law applicable to everyone. This principle emphasizes the importance of duty and rationality in moral judgments, claiming that ethical behavior is based on reason rather than personal desires or consequences.

When did Kant die and what were his later years like?

Immanuel Kant died on February 12, 1804, in Königsberg at the age of 80. In his later years, while he continued to write and refine his philosophical theories, he experienced a decline in health, including memory loss. Despite these challenges, Kant remained committed to his intellectual pursuits until shortly before his death, leaving a profound and enduring legacy in the world of philosophy.

“In the full confidence of valor and victory, I once aspired (said Adolphus) to change the face of the universe; to obliterate the name of Rome; to erect on its ruins the dominion of the Goths; and to acquire, like Augustus, the immortal fame of the founder of a new empire. By repeated experiments, I was gradually convinced, that laws are essentially necessary to maintain and regulate a well-constituted state; and that the fierce, untractable humor of the Goths was incapable of bearing the salutary yoke of laws and civil government. From that moment I proposed to myself a different object of glory and ambition; and it is now my sincere wish that the gratitude of future ages should acknowledge the merit of a stranger, who employed the sword of the Goths, not to subvert, but to restore and maintain, the prosperity of the Roman empire.

As he navigated through the tumultuous years post-Civil War, Hickok sought fame as a gambler, eventually settling in Deadwood, South Dakota. His infamous demise on August 2, 1876, when he was shot in the back of the head while playing cards, only added to his legendary status. The cards he held at the time—a pair of black aces and a pair of black eights—became known as the "dead man's hand," a symbol of his daring persona. Despite his violent end, Hickok's story has become a cornerstone of American folklore, representing the spirit of the Wild West and the complex tapestry of its history.

When Honorius died in 423 A.D, Aetius attached himself to the usurper Johannes, who sent him to the Huns to ask for military assistance. He returned to Italy in 425 A.D. with an army only to find Johannes dead and the western empire in control of Valentinian III and his mother Galla Placidia. After some fighting, Aetius was able to forge a compromise with Galla which required that he send the Huns home in exchange for an appointment as general under the new emperor.

The list of Aetius military successes is a long one. Between 427 and 430 A.D. he defeated the Visigoths and Franks in Gaul. Between 433 and 450 A.D. he fought the Burgundians, the Suebi, and the Visigoths, treating with the latter in 439 A.D. He fought the Burgundians again in 443 A.D. and the Franks again in 448 A.D. Wherever he went, Aetius carried a Hunnic cavalry with him.

Wild Bill Hickok's rise to legendary status began with a defining moment during the McCanles Massacre in July 1861, which took place in Rock Creek, Nebraska. At the time, Hickok was merely a stable-hand, but he found himself in a deadly confrontation when David McCanles and his men confronted him over a financial dispute. In a fierce exchange, Hickok triumphed by killing all three men, despite sustaining injuries himself. This harrowing encounter quickly captured public attention, leading to sensationalized accounts that exaggerated his exploits. Newspapers and magazines, such as Harper's New Monthly Magazine, would claim that Hickok was responsible for the deaths of numerous men, further embellishing his persona as a fearless gunfighter.

Hickok's untimely death underscored the precarious nature of life on the frontier, even for a figure as legendary as he. As his story spread, it fed into the larger narrative of the American West, elevating him to the status of a cultural icon. His legacy persists in the tales of gunfights and lawlessness, representing a bygone era where sheriffs and gamblers coexisted in a landscape wrought with danger and opportunity. Today, Wild Bill Hickok remains a symbol of the frontier’s wild spirit and the complexities of American history.

Following the murder, McCall was apprehended and faced trial within an improvised miners’ court. Using the defense that Hickok had killed his brother, a claim later proven false, McCall was surprisingly acquitted. This initial release sparked outrage, as Deadwood was situated in Indian Territory, casting doubt on the trial's legitimacy. Nonetheless, McCall boasted of killing Wild Bill, drawing the attention of U.S. marshals who tracked him down. Eventually, he was retried, found guilty, and met his end on the gallows on March 1, 1877, bringing a measure of justice to the legendary lawman's tragic fate.

Hickok’s earnings from gambling were closely tied to the highs and lows of his luck and skill at the card tables. He often played in challenging environments, where tensions ran high, and stakes were even higher. His experience at the poker table coupled with his iconic status made him a target for both admiration and animosity from fellow players. Though the exact figures are unclear, it is widely accepted that he experienced periods of both significant winnings and substantial losses, leaving his economic standing in a constant state of flux.

In 451 A.D, Attila was recruited to come to the aid of the Vandals and Franks who were under constant pressure from the Visigoths and Romans. His readiness to go to war is described by Gibbon in the following passage,

“The kings and nations of Germany and Scythia, from the Volga perhaps to the Danube, obeyed the warlike summons of Attila. From the royal village, in the plains of Hungary his standard moved towards the West; and after a march of seven or eight hundred miles, he reached the conflux of the Rhine and the Neckar, where he was joined by the Franks, who adhered to his ally, the elder of the sons of Clodion. A troop of light Barbarians, who roamed in quest of plunder, might choose the winter for the convenience of passing the river on the ice; but the innumerable cavalry of the Huns required such plenty of forage and provisions, as could be procured only in a milder season.

At the age of 70, Coco Chanel made a stunning return to the fashion industry in the early 1950s, reestablishing her groundbreaking position in a world that had evolved significantly during her years of absence. The post-war fashion landscape was marked by a return to femininity, and Chanel's designs were a perfect antidote to the overwhelming post-war fabric restrictions and the need for stylish comfort. Initially met with skeptics, her easy-fitting garments quickly captured the hearts of women worldwide, allowing them to embrace their sophistication with freedom. The iconic Chanel suit reemerged, capturing the essence of elegance that defined her vision.

Chanel's wealth was primarily generated through her innovative products, but it didn't come without struggles. During her early career, she faced challenges in negotiating her perfume profits with the Wertheimer family, who had supported her in launching Chanel No. 5. Despite disparities in profit sharing, she continued to push for better terms, illustrating her tenacity. Over the decades, the brand's expansion into fashion, jewelry, and cosmetics solidified her status as a fashion mogul, with revenues that soared into hundreds of millions annually. Coco Chanel's legacy is not just about her artistic contributions; it also embodies the entrepreneurial spirit and financial acumen she exhibited throughout her life.

The revolt, however, faced numerous challenges. As Turner and his group attempted to seize the county seat of Jerusalem to secure weapons and supplies, they encountered armed resistance from local white militias. This clash led to disarray amongst Turner's forces, forcing him to flee into the woods for several weeks. In the aftermath, white mobs retaliated against the Black community, killing an estimated 100 to 200 African Americans in retribution for the uprising. Ultimately, Turner's rebellion marked a crucial turning point in the history of slavery in America, instigating harsher laws against enslaved individuals and instilling fear throughout the South, while simultaneously fueling the abolitionist movement in the North.

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