Hi, i'm writing a dissertation for my graduation, and i'm stuck on a subject.
Expanding the title, i want to know how the diplomatic relations between Rome and the germanic kingdoms on its borders (Franks, Goths, Alamanni etc) could evolve without the arrival of the Huns.
I've recently read Peter Heather's "Foedera and Foederati of the Fourth Century", in which he argues that the treaty between Athanaric and Valens saw an important change in the relations of power: the tribute (read: interference) sent by the romans was canceled, the Goths wouldn't provide military service to the Romans anymore, and the frontier was closed and was to be fortified.
Now, bearing in mind that the germanic political entities were constantly evolving in economy, politics and overall power, what signifiance could the treaty have had, in practice?
Were the Goths beginning to evolve in an independent kingdom? I mean, they already were, mostly, but engaged within roman politics. Could they have attained a more prominent role in roman affairs similar to the one they played during the V century, but from outside the roman empire instead of within?
Thanks in advance for any reply.