The missionary Ulfilas converts the Goths to Arian Christianity, a heretical teaching that views Christ as less divine than the Father. From the Goths this belief spreads to other Germanic tribes. A.D. Internal conflict and ongoing pressure on the borders of the Roman empire lead to the incorporation of barbarian leaders and their followers into the Roman army. A.D. Mass migrations of Germanic tribes north of the Roman empire disrupt the rhythm of life in the provinces and create widespread disorder. In the face of uncertainty and chaos, patrons lose interest in civic building efforts and other architectural endeavors.
Artists invest time and precious materials in small, portable works.
430 A.D. Angles and Saxons, tribes from southern Denmark, raid the east coast of Britain and settle there. 496 A.D. Clovis, king of the Salian Franks, converts with all his entourage to Christianity. A.D. Clovis' early embrace of Roman Christianity and his subsequent military victories earn him wider dominion. When he dies, the Frankish kingdom is among the most powerful in western Europe. The Metropolitan Museum of Art.