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Goddas or Godas was a Gothic noblemen who served the Vandal Kingdom in Africa; sent by King Gelimer to collect taxes from the people of Sardinia. The Eastern Roman historican Procopius of Caesarea mentioned Goddas as one of Gelimer's most trusted men, tasked with the administration of Sardinia, with the committment of paying tribute to the King. Encouraged by the Sardinian people who were tired of Vandalic rule, he declared independence and proclaimed himself King of Sardinia, sending letters to Justinian, wanting to form an alliance between Sardinia and the Eastern Empire. Justinian arranged military aid to be sent to a man named Eulogio with instructions to deliver a military force and a commander of the Byzantine army to help defend the island. Yet a Vandal army consisting of 120 ships and 5000 men under the command of Tzazo to put an end to the uprising.

Now this is where it gets interesting. While Tzazo was away, a Byzantine army commanded by Belisarius sailed for Africa with the intention of restoring North Africa to the Byzantine Empire. With the absence of Tzazo and the bulk of the Vandal army, Belisarius was able to land unopposed, and ultimately destroyed the Vandal kingdom.

The question is what if Goddas decides to remain loyal to Gelimer, thus leaving Tzazo and his forces ready to back up Gelimer when Belisarius comes?


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