Anthemius, crowned as Western Roman Emperor in 467, faced numerous challenges during his reign, including external threats from barbarian groups and internal dissent from his own generals. By 472, the political landscape in Rome had become increasingly volatile, with Anthemius' authority being contested. The turning point came when his own military commanders, disillusioned by his leadership, orchestrated a siege against him. The prolonged conflict led Anthemius to seek refuge in one of the most sacred sites in Rome, St. Peter's Basilica, hoping that the sanctity of the church would protect him from his pursuers.

However, the sanctuary was of little solace. The generals, determined to eliminate their adversary, breached the sanctuary's protection. Upon his capture, Anthemius faced multiple accusations of incompetence and mismanagement, stemming from both military defeats and political missteps. Ultimately, he was sentenced to death, marking a pivotal moment in the decline of the Western Roman Empire, as internal strife undermined its stability. Anthemius' fall served as a stark reminder of the fragmentation of power within the imperial structure, indicating a shift towards overt military might in governance decisions.

The chaos exemplified by the fate of Anthemius highlighted the pressures on the Roman state in its final years. This event also underscored the loss of political authority in a time of increasing barbarian incursions and civil discord, showcasing how emperors could be swiftly relegated to mere pawns in the power struggles of ambitious generals. The era following his death only further solidified the turmoil that would ultimately precipitate the Empire’s collapse.