What were the dates of the Marcomannic Wars?
The Marcomannic Wars spanned from about AD 166 until 180. Hostilities resumed in 177 and continued through 180 when Marcus Aurelius died on the 17th of March 180.
Questions about Marcomannic Wars
Short answers, pulled from the story.
Who led the Roman forces during the Marcomannic Wars?
Marcus Aurelius commanded Roman forces throughout most of the conflict while Lucius Verus participated before his death in January 169. Other commanders included Claudius Pompeianus, Titus Furius Victorinus, Marcus Valerius Maximianus, and Publius Tarrutenius Paternus.
Which Germanic tribes fought against Rome in the Marcomannic Wars?
Germanic tribes involved included the Marcomanni under King Ballomar, Quadi, Iazyges, Langobardi, Lacringi, Costoboci, Buri, and free Dacians. These groups formed coalitions to raid across the Danube and Rhine frontiers.
When did the Marcomanni cross into Pannonia?
Thousands of Langobardi and Lacringi crossed into Pannonia in late 166 marking the beginning of a broader crisis. The Marcomanni later advanced south ravaging Noricum and reaching northern Italy by early 172.
What happened at Carnuntum during the Marcomannic Wars?
A Roman force of 20,000 was defeated near Carnuntum by the Marcomanni led by King Ballomar. Marcus Aurelius also established headquarters at Aquileia before crossing the Alps into Pannonia and later returned to Carnuntum in August 178 for his second campaign.