The Rise of Islam in the 630’s threatened the existence of two ancient superpowers – the Persian and Roman Empires. In 636 AD the decisive battle took place between the Arabs led by Khalid ibn al-Walid and the Byzantine/Roman Empire of Heraklius- the Battle of Yarmouk.
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
From Wikimedia Commons.
For further details, go to http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Category:Battle_of_Yarmouk
In the 620’s the Eastern Roman Empire faced several threats, most notably the Persian Empire. Part 1 focuses on the conflict between Constantinople and Persia. This provides the context for the Rise of Islam in the 630’s leading to the decisive Battle of Yarmouk in 636 AD between the Roman Emperor Heraclius and the Arab invaders.
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Attila and the Huns vs Aetius and the Roman Empire, with their respective allies
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Disposition and Movements of the forces arrayed at the Battle of the Catalaunian Fields, also known as the Battle of Chalons
Illustration by A. De Neuville (1836-1885)
Battle of the Catalaunian Fields, also known as Battle of Chalons
From Jacob van Maerlant’s Spieghel Historiael (between circa and circa 
)
The rise of the Roman army commander Aetius who would face Attila and the Huns in the Battle of the Catalaunian Fields in the twilight of Empire
Podcast: Play in new window | Download