alternatehistory.com

So I've been toying with the idea of a Roman East Africa, just because the idea intrigues me.

If we posit a scenario where Justinians renovatio imperii is slightly different. Rather than trying to reunite the whole Empire in one go, the goal is just Carthage and Italy.

To achieve this, he gives Belisarius an army that is larger than he did in OTL. Large enough to take and hold Carthage and rapidly take Italy (EDIT : Why did I say Egypt?!) . - I'm taking the role that this succeeds with very few casualties, thus avoiding the damage of the Gothic Wars. This then leads to the Romano-Gothic fortification of the Alps to provide long-term security for the area. Justinian then sets up the "Office of Restoration" - essentially a military planning and diplomatic bureau whose sole purpose is to expand the Empire westwards. Part of this reason is to make sure Belisarius (who with more reinforcements has conquered Italy much more rapidly), is able to be back in the East in advance of a Persian invasion (without having to resort to tricking them in Ravenna) - which as per OTL there is a victory that leaves the ERE somewhat secure. Italy is pacified and (somewhat) loyal, as is part of Africa.

If we assume Narses (or someone else) is the head of the Office of Restoration, we now have a very popular general in Belisarius. This is where the title of this what if becomes relevant. With all this, Justinian is wary of Belisarius, and decides that with his ability to conquer far afield, and wanting to be rid of a politically dangerous general, that Belisarius is to conquer the lands of the Blemmyes, and bring all of East Africa under Roman rule. (I.e. Push the Frontier South). Belisarius, as IOTL isn't actually looking to rebel, and as such goes ahead with it - taking some Goths, Numidians, and Roman troops.

What sort of Expedition could he put together, drawing on Gothic and Roman manpower that Justinian will provide, and how far could the Erythraean Expedition feasibly go? What resources would they be finding (I'm under the impression that Ivory and Gold are not unlikely finds). What are the consequences of your plan?
Top