Lucius Domitius Aurelianus
Lucius Domitius Aurelianus, often referred to simply as Aurelian, was a significant Roman emperor who ruled from 270 to 275 CE. Born into a peasant family along the empire's frontier, he rose through the ranks of the Roman army to become a general of the cavalry. His ascent to power came after the death of Emperor Claudius II during a plague, at a time when the Roman Empire faced serious fragmentation and external threats. Aurelian was instrumental in restoring the empire's unity, successfully combating various barbarian tribes, reclaiming the Eastern provinces from the rule of Zenobia of Palmyra, and resolving the Gallic Empire's independence. His military reforms and fortification of Rome's walls contributed significantly to the city's defenses, many of which remain visible today. Despite his achievements, Aurelian's reign was cut short when he was assassinated in 275 CE by disloyal officers. His legacy is that of a decisive leader whose actions laid essential groundwork for the Roman Empire's continued existence in subsequent centuries.
Lucius Domitius Aurelianus
Related civilization: Imperial Rome
Major role/position: Emperor
Life
Lucius Domitius Aurelianus (LEW-shee-uhs doh-MIHSH-ee-uhs aw-ree-lee-AY-nuhs) was born to a peasant family on the frontier but rose rapidly in the Roman army to become a general of the cavalry. When Emperor Claudius II died of plague in 270 c.e., Aurelianus was chosen to succeed to the throne.
When Aurelianus took command, the Eastern provinces had broken away from Rome under the leadership of Zenobia of Palmyra. Gaul, Spain, and Britain had also been an independent empire since 259 c.e. The central portion of the empire was suffering constant attack by barbarians.
Aurelianus quickly and decisively restored the unity and security of the empire. He defeated the barbarians (including the Allemanni and the Juthungi), fortified Rome, conquered Zenobia of Palmyra, and arranged the surrender of the Gallic emperor, all within five years. In 275 c.e., he was treacherously murdered by a group of officers when his secretary, who was about to be prosecuted for corruption, told them they were to be executed.
Influence
Known to his soldiers as “hand to the sword” (manu ad ferrum), Aurelianus was the supreme man of action who came along when only such a person would serve. He saved the Roman Empire from destruction, setting the groundwork for its survival for the next few centuries. The walls he built around the city of Rome were its principal defense for many centuries and are still visible.
Bibliography
Gibbon, Edward. Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire. New York: Modern Library, 1995.
Watson, Alaric. Aurelian and the Third Century. London: Routledge, 1999.