An introduction to the Roman Empire's relations with one of the most important barbarian groups of the ancient world. Kulikowski traces the history of Romano-Gothic relations from their earliest stage in the third century until the entry of many Goths into the empire in 376 and the subsequent catastrophic Gothic war.

Using archaeological and historical evidence, this work traces the history of Romano-Gothic relations from their earliest stages in the third century and looks at the social and political causes of the conflict between the Roman Empire and its Gothic neighbors, which ultimately led to the catastrophic Gothic War in 376. 4 maps.