Crisis of the Third Century

Crisis of the Third Century (also known as the "Military Anarchy" or the "Imperial Crisis" ) is a commonly applied name for the crumbling and near collapse of the Roman Empire between 235 and 284 caused by the three simultaneous crises of external invasion, internal civil war and economic collapse. The changes in the institutions, society, economic life and eventually religion were so profound and fundamental, the "Crisis of the Third Century" is increasingly seen as the watershed marking the difference between the classical world and the early mediaeval world, or world of late antiquity.

Related Topics:
Roman Empire - 235 - 284 - Classical world - Mediaeval - Late antiquity

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During this roughly half-century period, three crises, any one of which were a singular threat to the Empire, came together in a perfect storm: external invasions, internal civil wars and a runaway hyperinflation economy. The future viability of the Empire, by all reasonable standards, should have come to an end; only through a series of tough soldier emperors and the measures of Diocletian in 284 to split the empire in half and other reforms allowed it to continue, eventually entering a new phase known as the "Dominate," the "Tetrarchy," and the "Later Roman Empire".

Related Topics:
Hyperinflation - Diocletian

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During this period, Rome was ruled by roughly 20 to 25 individuals, the exact number a matter of debate since so many claimed the title at the same time. Most of them were prominent generals who assumed Imperial power over all or part of the empire, only to lose it by defeat in battle, murder, or death, ruling on average only 2 to 3 years.

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