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| Young Attila
Attila was born sometime around the year 400 A.D. Most likely the actual year was 406 A.D. At that time , the Huns were divided into several different tribes. Attila's father, Munzuk, was their King. The origin of Attila's name in one of mystery. Some say that "atil" is the Hunic word for iron. Others say that his father named him after the river Volga, in Russia, which the Huns also referred to as "atil". Whatever it may be, one thing is for certain; great things were expected of Attila. Attila's father died and his uncle, Rugha, became their king. Rugha raised young Attila and his brother Bleda. The Huns, like many barbarian tribes, constantly encroached upon the borders of the Roman Empire. One must remember that the mighty Roman Empire was a mere shadow of it's former self, and to try and keep peace with the Huns, Emperors of the Roman Empire often paid them tribute as to avoid conflict. Also, it was the custom during those times for "rivals" to exchange prisoners as to learn more about the other's culture. Attila went to live in the Roman court for several years. His Roman counter part, Aetius, went to live with the Huns. Being exposed to the corruption and indulgencies of the Roman Empire took it's toll on the young barbarian. For Attila, to know Rome was to hate Rome. So, after being returned to his fellow Huns, Attila vowed one day to return to Rome, not as a visitor, but as a conqueror. |
