I was wondering what would have happened if instead of giving away land in Gaul and other regions to the Foederati in exchange for service in defence of the frontier and to conquer their new homes, if instead they transported them to lands that they would have overlordship over, as reasonably free vassals of Rome instead.
Typically to lands that avoid the problems of Continental Europe.
Potential territories
- Beyond Hadrians Wall - use the Foederati backed by Roman Engineers and Legions to conquer the rest of the Isles.
- Arabia - Sending men to mix up the Arabian Peninsula - Warm lands in exchange for service (even if they'll need teaching to survive). Controlling this helps protect them in Egypt - and makes a longer front for the Sassanids if they invade.
- North Africa (beyond the coasts). If they were able to establish more towns south of the Atlas, these towns and fortifications could strengthen the frontier against Moors, and other desert invaders.
- South of Egypt - Whilst Aksum has some control here - any additional territory that can be controlled and is survivable (i.e. no mass die-off from disease) would shore up the Romans control over the Red Sea
Now if the only requirements of the deal afterwards are to provide soldiers for the armies, and obviously to defend their territories in self-interest, how would the Empire, the Foederati and the areas mentioned evolve?
Also, what other areas could this plan be implemented in?