Belisarius was born around the beginning of the sixth century, probably in the Balkans. He rose through the Byzantine military hierarchy and eventually became one of Emperor Justinian I's most trusted commanders.
His early career included campaigns against the Sasanian Persian Empire. His leadership during conflicts on the eastern frontier helped establish his reputation as a capable military commander.
Belisarius later became a leading figure in Justinian's efforts to recover territories that had formerly belonged to the Western Roman Empire.
His campaigns took him to North Africa and Italy, where he faced the Vandals, Ostrogoths and other military forces.
Despite his military successes, Belisarius also experienced political difficulties and changes in imperial favor throughout his career.