History glossary
barbarian
a Roman and Greek label for peoples outside the empire's cultural and political order, often used with prejudice.
- Category
- Historical term
- Region
- Roman world and its frontiers
- Date range
- Classical and late antique periods
What it means
Barbarian was a Roman and Greek label for peoples considered outside the empire's cultural, linguistic, or political order. In late Roman history it often refers to groups such as Goths, Vandals, Franks, and others who could be enemies, migrants, soldiers, allies, or rulers. The word reflects Roman assumptions and prejudice, so it should not be read as meaning primitive or uncivilized.
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