What Happened This Year 461

Historical Events from This Year 461

Politics & Government

Majorian Arrested by Ricimer near Tortona

August 2nd, 461 1563 years ago

In a significant power shift, Majorian, the Roman emperor, was arrested by the Suebian general Ricimer near Tortona. This occurred in northern Italy as Ricimer aimed to install a puppet ruler under his control. Majorian had previously attempted to restore the Western Roman Empire's strength but faced increasing opposition from military leaders and political factions. The arrest marked a turning point in the power dynamics of the empire.

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Politics & Government

Deposition and Execution of Emperor Majorian

August 7th, 461 1563 years ago

Majorian, the Roman Emperor, was arrested and executed by Ricimer, the magister militum, near the river Iria in north-west Italy. This drastic action followed Majorian's failure to effectively address the pressing challenges of the Western Roman Empire, as well as his deteriorating relationship with Ricimer, who sought to consolidate power. The beheading marked a significant power shift within the imperial structure as it underscored the tensions between military leaders and the imperial office.

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Politics & Government

Libius Severus Becomes Emperor of the West

November 19th, 461 1563 years ago

Libius Severus was proclaimed the emperor of the Western Roman Empire, with Ricimer, the powerful magister militum, holding actual authority. This declaration marked a critical moment within the increasingly fragmented Western Roman political structure, reflecting rising military influence over imperial authority. Severus, a figure with limited political power, was largely seen as a puppet ruler, manipulated by Ricimer's ambitions. The event took place amid a backdrop of military unrest and challenges from barbarian groups, illustrating the growing volatility of the Western Roman Empire in this period.

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Born in 461

People Who Died in 461

Majorian

Roman Emperor and military leader
Died
August 7th, 461 1563 years ago — None years old

Reigned as Roman Emperor from 457 to 461. Majorian focused on restoring the Western Roman Empire's strength after years of decline. He faced significant challenges, including invasions by barbarian tribes. Majorian's military campaigns aimed to reclaim territories lost to the Visigoths and Vandals. His notable campaigns included the offensive against the Vandals in North Africa. Majorian implemented reforms to improve the administration and taxation of the empire, seeking to stabilize the economy. His leadership emphasized military capability and governance until his deposition by his own generals led to his demise in 461.

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Pope Leo I

Papal leader during the 5th century
Died
November 10th, 461 1563 years ago — None years old

Served as Pope from 440 to 461. Instrumental in defining the authority of the papacy. Known for the theological work 'Tome of Leo,' which affirmed the nature of Christ at the Council of Chalcedon in 451. Addressed various heresies and emphasized the importance of unity within the Christian community. Advocated for the church's role in political matters, notably negotiating with Attila the Hun to spare Rome from invasion.

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