Maxentius Declared Emperor by Troops
October 28th, 306
October 28th, 306
How Long Ago?
1718 years, 4 months, 15 days ago
Location
Rome, Italy
Category
Politics & Government
People
- Maximian
- Galerius
- Constantine the Great
- Maxentius
Links & References
Tags
Maxentius Declared Emperor by Troops
Maxentius was declared Roman emperor by his troops following the death of his father, Maximian. This declaration occurred amidst a power struggle in the Roman Empire, with various factions contesting for control. His claim to the imperial title was solidified at the city of Rome, which was a significant center of power and political intrigue. His ascension was part of a broader contest for the throne that characterized the period known as the Tetrarchy.
Maxentius claimed the throne after Maximian's death.
Declared emperor by troops in Rome, key power center.
Faced opposition from Galerius and other rivals.
His rule influenced future conflicts with Constantine.
What Happened?
Following the death of Maximian in July 306, Maxentius seized the opportunity to claim the title of Roman emperor. Rallying support from the Praetorian Guard and local legions, he took to the streets of Rome to announce his imperial status. This moment was crucial as the Roman Empire faced considerable political fragmentation, with multiple claimants to the throne. Maxentius positioned himself in opposition to the authority of Galerius, who was the senior emperor at the time. With the military backing he received, Maxentius began consolidating power in Rome and the surrounding regions, marking a shift in the political landscape of the empire. His reign was characterized by a strong emphasis on public works and urban renewal in Rome, reflecting his desire to win the favor of the populace. Additionally, he tapped into his family's legacy, aiming to elevate the status of the Maxentian line in Roman history. This burgeoning rivalry between various claimants set the stage for future conflicts that would ultimately reshape the empire’s political structure.
Why Does it Matter?
Maxentius' proclamation as emperor is significant as it exemplifies the chaotic power dynamics of the Roman Empire during the Tetrarchy. His rule was marked by battles against rival claimants, most notably Constantine the Great. This confrontation led to a series of political and military maneuvers that eventually resulted in the rise of Constantine, who would centralize power and pave the way for the Christianization of the empire. The events surrounding Maxentius illustrate the intricate dance of political ambition and military support that defined Roman imperial politics.
Discover More Historic Events from October 28th
South Africa Claims Fourth Rugby World Cup Title
The 2023 Rugby World Cup final took place at the Stade de France in Saint-Denis, France, featuring a gripping match between South Africa and New Zealand. In a closely contested encounter, South Africa emerged victorious with a score of 12 to 11, earning their fourth Webb Ellis Cup. This win made South Africa the first nation to achieve this remarkable feat, showcasing their dominance in the sport and thrilling fans around the globe.
Continue ReadingJair Bolsonaro Wins Brazilian Presidency
Jair Bolsonaro was elected president of Brazil, receiving over 57 million votes. His main opponent, Fernando Haddad from the Workers' Party, received significant but lesser support. This election marked a pivotal moment in Brazil's recent political history, breaking a streak of 16 continuous years of Workers' Party leadership in the presidency. Bolsonaro's campaign was marked by his controversial views and promises of major reforms, capturing the attention of both domestic and international audiences.
Continue ReadingCygnus CRS Orb-3 Mission Explosion
A launch vehicle carrying NASA's Cygnus CRS Orb-3 exploded seconds after liftoff from Wallops Island, Virginia. The Antares rocket was set to deliver supplies to the International Space Station when the incident occurred shortly after takeoff. Fortunately, there were no injuries reported as the launch pad was uncrewed at the time of the explosion. This event highlighted the risks associated with space missions and sparked discussions on launch safety protocols.
Continue ReadingCar crashes into barriers at Tiananmen Square
A vehicle plowed into barricades in Tiananmen Square, resulting in five fatalities and injuring 38 others. This incident occurred during a time when the square was crowded with tourists and locals, highlighting significant security concerns in a historically sensitive area. The crash raised suspicions of intentionality due to the square's prominence as a site of political protests and dissent.
Continue ReadingPeshawar Bombing Kills Over a Hundred People
On 28 October, a devastating bombing occurred at a police training center in Peshawar, Pakistan. A suicide bomber detonated an explosive-laden vehicle during the morning hours, leading to at least 117 deaths and injuring 213 others. The attack targeted a facility used for training law enforcement, highlighting the ongoing threat of terrorism in the region. The bombing prompted widespread condemnation and a renewed focus on security in Pakistan.
Continue ReadingObama Signs Hate Crimes Prevention Act
The Matthew Shepard and James Byrd Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act was signed into law by President Barack Obama, expanding existing hate crimes legislation to include those motivated by sexual orientation, gender identity, and disability. The Act was named after two individuals who were victims of hate crimes in the late 1990s. The ceremony took place in the East Room of the White House, marking a significant moment for civil rights advocates. This legislation aimed to enhance federal resources for the investigation and prosecution of hate crimes, reflecting a commitment to addressing violence against marginalized groups.
Continue Reading