The effect of the Donatist controversy on…

The effect of the Donatist controversy on the economy and administration of the African provinces cannot be measured, but it is certainly profound.

At the very moment of the effective victory of the African church, the rest of the Roman Empire is crumbling to ruin.

The retention of Africa becomes ever more vital to the survival of what is left of imperial authority.

In this situation, the comites Africae are increasingly tempted to intrigue for their own advantage.

The indicted Bonifacius, rather than surrender to probable execution, calls in the support of Vandal mercenaries from their grazing grounds in Hispania.