Attila the Hun: Arch-Enemy of Rome

A biography of the notorious tribal leader whose empire challenged the Romans.

Most know the name Attila the Hun—but few are familiar with the full history behind this historical figure. Rising to the Hunnic kingship around 434, he dominated European history for the next two decades. Attila bullied and manipulated both halves of the Roman Empire, forcing successive emperors to make tribute payments or face invasion.

Here, Ian Hughes recounts Attila's rise to power, attempting to untangle...