406 CE

Vandals, Alans and Suebians cross the Rhine at Mogontiacum (modern Mainz), beginning an invasion of Gaul (traditional date, this may have occurred in 405). Hanzei succeeds his brother Richu, and becomes the 18th emperor of Japan in the traditional order of succession. Cultivation of rye, oats, hops, and spelt (a wheat used for livestock feed) is introduced in Europe by the native Vandals, Alans, and Sciri, who also introduce a heavy wheeled plow to be used for farming.

In the 400s, the 5th century.

Conflict & Security

  • December 31 – Vandals, Alans and Suebians cross the Rhine at Mogontiacum (modern Mainz), beginning an invasion of Gaul (traditional date, this may have occurred in 405).source
  • Hanzei succeeds his brother Richu, and becomes the 18th emperor of Japan in the traditional order of succession.source
  • Vandal-Frankish war: The Vandals, led by Godigisel, are intercepted and defeated by the Franks under Marcomir. Godigisel is killed in battle and succeeded by his son Gunderic.source
  • Radagaisus is forced to retreat into the hills of Fiesole. There he tries to escape, but is captured by the Romans.source
  • Autumn – The remaining Roman legions in Britain decide to mutiny. The usurper Marcus is proclaimed emperor.source

Exploration & Expansion

  • Faxian, Chinese traveler, arrives in India. He visits the major seats of Buddhist learning (Udyana, Peshawar, and Taxila).source

Religion & Belief

  • Stained glass is used for the first time in churches in Rome.source

Economy & Finance

  • Cultivation of rye, oats, hops, and spelt (a wheat used for livestock feed) is introduced in Europe by the native Vandals, Alans, and Sciri, who also introduce a heavy wheeled plow to be used for farming.source

Births

  • Shao Di, emperor of the Liu Song dynasty (died 424)source
  • Attila the Hun, ruler of the Hunnic Empire (approximate date) (died 453)source

Deaths

  • August 23 – Radagaisus, Gothic kingsource
  • August 23 – Radagaisus is executed; 12,000 "barbarians" are incorporated into the Roman army, or sold as slaves.source
  • Gu Kaizhi, Chinese painter (born c. 344)source
  • Godigisel, king of the Vandalssource
  • Zhang Tianxi, ruler of Former Liang (born 346)source
  • Alban of Mainz, priest and martyr (approximate date)source