Belisarius is considered one of the 'Last of the Romans' for his embodiment of traditional Roman virtues and military skill. He rose to prominence by defeating the Sasanians at the Battle of Dara.
Under Emperor Justinian I, he led the ambitious campaign to reconquer the lost Western provinces. He swiftly conquered the Vandal Kingdom in North Africa and then launched a long, difficult campaign against the Ostrogoths in Italy, capturing Rome and Ravenna.
Despite often being under-resourced and viewed with suspicion by the Emperor, his tactical genius allowed him to achieve victories against the odds. Late in life, he was briefly imprisoned but restored to favor before his death.