Claudius II

Marcus Aurelius Claudius Gothicus (May 10, 213/214 - January, 270), more often referred to as Claudius II, ruled the Roman Empire for less than two years (268 - 270), but during that brief time, he was so successful and beloved by the people of Rome that he attained divine status.

Related Topics:
May 10 - 213 - 214 - January - 270 - Roman Empire - 268

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His origin is uncertain. Claudius was either from the Sirmium region (in Pannonia Inferior) or from Dardania (in Moesia Superior). Claudius was the commander of the Roman army that defeated decisively the Goths at the battle of Naissus, in September 268; in the same month, he attained the throne, amid charges, never proven, that he murdered his predecessor Gallienus. However, he soon proved to be less than bloodthirsty, as he asked the Roman Senate to spare the lives of Gallienus' family and supporters. He was less magnanimous toward Rome's enemies, however, and it was to this that he owed his popularity.

Related Topics:
Sirmium region - Pannonia - Dardania - Moesia - Goths - Battle of Naissus - Gallienus - Roman Senate

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Claudius, like Maximinus Thrax before him, was of barbarian birth. After an interlude of failed artistocratic Roman emperors since Maximinus's death, Claudius was the first in a series of tough soldier-emperors who would eventually restore the Empire from the Crisis of the third century.

Related Topics:
Maximinus Thrax - Crisis of the third century

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