Petronius Maximus, a powerful politician and member of the Roman Senate, rose to prominence after the untimely death of Emperor Valentinian III. The political atmosphere of the Western Roman Empire had become increasingly unstable, marked by internal factionalism and external threats. With the Senate's backing, Petronius seized the opportunity to claim the imperial title, positioning himself as an authoritative figure capable of restoring order. On March 17, Petronius not only assumed the throne but also forced Licinia Eudoxia, the widow of his predecessor, into marriage. This act was not just a personal union but a highly politicized maneuver aimed at consolidating his power and ensuring political legitimacy in a realm where loyalty was often fleeting. By marrying Eudoxia, Petronius sought to align himself with the legacy of Valentinian III, appealing to the deceased emperor's supporters and stabilizing his rule amidst rising tensions.

The marriage to Eudoxia was controversial; she had opposed Petronius's ascendancy and was also a mother to the slain emperor's children. However, her forced marriage exemplified the lengths to which Petronius would go to secure his position. The implications of this union would have far-reaching consequences, both for Eudoxia and the broader context of Roman politics. This event reflected the considerable influence the Senate still wielded in appointing and legitimizing emperors, even as the Western Roman Empire faced existential challenges. The political landscape was characterized by shifting alliances and power struggles, highlighting how the Senate, even in its weakened state, could still play a critical role in imperial succession.

Whereas Petronius’s rule initially appeared as a stabilizing force, it also foreshadowed continued instability. His short reign would soon face numerous challenges, including military pressures from external enemies and internal dissent. Petronius Maximus's ascent and the forced marriage to Licinia Eudoxia reveal the intricate web of personal and political motivations that shaped the imperial landscape during the decline of the Western Roman Empire.