Emperor Theodosius the Great (347-395 AD) spent the early years of his reign fighting against barbarian invaders and settlers in the East (specifically the Visigoths). However, he eventually realized he could not contain the relentless Visigoth influx. Thus, he signed a peace treaty with them in 382.
According to the terms of this treaty, the barbarians were allowed to have their own land (Thrace) within the Roman Empire. In return, the barbarians submitted to the rule of Theodosius and furnished troops for his army.
This treaty brought a double benefit to the Romans. First, they were able to divert money and resources away from the war with the Visigoths. Second, the Visigoths were experienced fighters, so their enrollment in the Roman military greatly increased the strength of the Roman army.
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