In the traditional history of the fall of Rome, the violent "barbarians" destroy "civilization." However, from a different perspective, these old generalizations become a terrifyingly vivid and relevant story. Alaric grew up near the borders that separated Gothic territory from the Romans. He survived the emperor's decision to separate migrant children from their parents. Later, he was denied citizenship despite his service in the army. The three nights of turmoil that the Goths brought to the capital in 410 AD - under Alaric's leadership - instilled fear in the hearts of the mighty, but it was not without reason. Through Alaric's story, Douglas Boin reveals the complex and fascinating legacy of the Goths in shaping the history we thought we knew but never imagined from their own perspective.