Historical Events tagged with "empire"

Turns out history loves a label—battles, breakthroughs, and the occasional disaster, all neatly tagged for your browsing pleasure. Because sometimes you just need every weird invention in one place.

Politics & Government

Shapur I Becomes Co-Emperor with Ardashir I

April 12th, 240 1784 years ago

Shapur I was appointed co-emperor of the Sasanian Empire with his father, Ardashir I, marking a significant transition in imperial governance. This dynastic event highlighted the importance of hereditary succession in consolidating power during the early Sasanian period. The appointment further secured Shapur's position as a key figure in the empire's expansion and administration, paving the way for his future reign. Together, they worked towards stabilizing and unifying the empire following Ardashir's establishment of the Sasanian dynasty.

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Politics & Government

Murder of Emperor Severus Alexander

March 22nd, 235 1789 years ago

Severus Alexander was assassinated by his own troops in a coup, which marked a significant turning point in Roman history. The incident occurred near Mainz, Germany, during a campaign against Germanic tribes. Discontent among the soldiers, fueled by disillusionment with Alexander's policies and military performance, led to rising tensions. His death signaled the beginning of the Crisis of the Third Century, a period characterized by political instability and civil wars.

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Military & Warfare

Ardashir I Defeats Artabanus V at Hormozdgan

April 28th, 224 1800 years ago

Ardashir I of Persia faced Artabanus V of Parthia at Hormozdgan, decisively defeating him in a battle that marked the end of the Parthian Empire. This pivotal confrontation secured Ardashir's control over the region and set the stage for the establishment of the Sassanian Empire, which would influence the course of Persian history for centuries to come.

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Politics & Government

Murder of Emperor Elagabalus and His Mother

March 13th, 222 1803 years ago

Roman Emperor Elagabalus and his mother, Julia Soaemias, were murdered in a violent coup led by the Roman military. This power struggle was sparked by dissatisfaction with Elagabalus's controversial rule, which included religious and cultural practices that clashed with traditional Roman values. Following their deaths, Elagabalus's cousin, Severus Alexander, a mere 14 years old, was elevated to the position of emperor amid hopes for stability and reform in the empire. The events unfolded in Rome, showcasing the fragility of imperial power in a time of political turbulence.

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Politics & Government

Assassination of Emperor Caracalla

April 8th, 217 1807 years ago

Caracalla was assassinated by his troops while traveling to a campaign. His Praetorian Guard prefect, Marcus Opellius Macrinus, seized power immediately after the murder. The motives behind the assassination stemmed from Caracalla's unpopular rule and harsh policies. The event marked a notable shift in power dynamics within the Roman Empire.

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Politics & Government

Civil Strife Following Septimius Severus' Death

February 4th, 211 1814 years ago

The death of Roman Emperor Septimius Severus in Eboracum left the Roman Empire in turmoil. While preparing for a campaign against the Caledonians, Severus passed away, leaving his two sons, Caracalla and Geta, in control of the empire. This situation escalated tensions between the brothers, despite their father's instructions to maintain peace. Their conflicting ambitions laid the groundwork for a violent power struggle in the years to come.

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Politics & Government

Senate Appoints Pertinax as Emperor of Rome

January 1st, 193 1832 years ago

The Roman Senate selects Pertinax, a respected senator and former provincial governor, against his will to succeed Commodus as Emperor. This decision came after the assassination of Commodus and a brief period of chaos in Rome, prompting the Senate to seek stability. Pertinax, known for his integrity and military background, was reluctant to accept the role but was compelled due to the Senate's overwhelming support.

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Military & Warfare

Dong Zhuo Evacuates and Destroys Luoyang

April 4th, 190 1834 years ago

Dong Zhuo commanded his troops to evacuate Luoyang, subsequently setting the city ablaze. This decision aimed to thwart adversaries, erasing vital imperial resources and his political base. The burning marked a dramatic shift in power dynamics and highlighted Dong Zhuo's ruthless tactics during his reign as a warlord.

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Politics & Government

Marcus Aurelius Elevates Commodus to Imperator

November 27th, 176 1848 years ago

Emperor Marcus Aurelius officially recognized his son, Commodus, by granting him the prestigious title of 'Imperator' and appointing him as Supreme Commander of the Roman legions. This significant decision highlighted the trust Aurelius placed in his son and marked a pivotal moment in the early leadership transition of the Roman Empire. In the palace in Rome, the event solidified Commodus's role in military affairs, indicating the dynastic continuity in the governance of the empire.

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