Theodoric the Great was a king of the Ostrogoths who ruled from 493 to 526 AD. He is best known for establishing the Ostrogothic Kingdom in Italy after defeating the last Roman emperor, Romulus Augustulus. Theodoric aimed to create a stable and prosperous realm by promoting coexistence between the Goths and the Romans. During his reign, Theodoric implemented various reforms, including legal and administrative changes, to strengthen his kingdom. He also encouraged cultural and architectural development, leading to a flourishing of arts and learning. His rule is often seen as a significant period in the transition from the Roman Empire to the Middle Ages.