Galerius

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Romuliana Galerius head

Galerius (Gaius Galerius Valerius Maximianus; c. 250 – April or May 311) was a Roman Emperor who ruled from 305 to 311. Born in the province of Dacia Aureliana (now part of modern-day Serbia and Bulgaria), Galerius rose through the military ranks to become a high-ranking officer. His career took a significant turn when he was appointed as Caesar under Emperor Diocletian in 293, as part of the Tetrarchy, a system designed to bring order to the Roman Empire by having two senior emperors (Augusti) and two junior emperors (Caesares).

Early Life and Military Career

Little is known about Galerius' early life before his military career. He is believed to have been born to a family of humble origins, and his rise to power is a testament to his military capabilities and leadership skills. Galerius' military prowess was first recognized during Diocletian's campaigns against the Sarmatians and the Persian Empire, where he demonstrated exceptional skill and bravery.

Rise to Power

In 293, Diocletian established the Tetrarchy, and Galerius was chosen as one of the two Caesares, alongside Constantius Chlorus. Galerius was tasked with governing the eastern provinces of the empire, and his capital was in Antioch. During his reign as Caesar, Galerius led successful military campaigns against the Persians, securing a peace treaty that expanded the empire's eastern boundary.

Reign as Augustus

Following Diocletian's and Maximian's abdications in 305, Galerius became Augustus of the East, with Licinius later becoming his counterpart in the West. Galerius' reign was marked by his efforts to continue the policies of Diocletian, including the persecution of Christians within the empire. The Diocletianic Persecution, which sought to suppress Christianity, reached its peak under Galerius. However, in 311, shortly before his death, Galerius issued the Edict of Toleration, which ended the persecution of Christians and allowed them to practice their religion freely.

Death and Legacy

Galerius died in 311 from a disease, believed to be cancer or gangrene. His death marked the beginning of the end for the Tetrarchy, as the system soon collapsed into a series of civil wars, eventually leading to the rise of Constantine the Great and the establishment of Christianity as the dominant religion of the Roman Empire.

Galerius' legacy is complex; he is often remembered for his persecution of Christians, but he also contributed to the stability and expansion of the Roman Empire. His military campaigns against the Persians were particularly significant, as they secured the empire's eastern borders and ensured peace for several years.

See Also

• Diocletian
• Tetrarchy
• Constantine the Great
• Edict of Toleration