DiocletianRuled 284 CE - 305 CE
Diocletian probably is one of the most unique emperors, due to his origin and his actions while in rule.
Diocletian came from a pretty poor family in the Danube, and had a pretty small beginning. However, he rose in the ranks as a capable military officer under Gallienus and served in the Imperial Guard. Diocletian soon fought his way to the emperorship, and ended the infamous Crisis of the 3rd Century. Diocletian is probably most well known for his creation of the tetrarchy, in which rule was divided between the East and West Roman Empires, with an Augustus (main emperor) and Caesar (lower emperor) for each. Although there were a few revolts that arose from this change, it generally helped to stabilize Roman power. He also divided the Roman empire into 12 administrative districts, known as dioceses. Diocletian died a peaceful death in retirement, away in the countryside. |
Other Facts• Full Name: Caesar Gaius Aurelius Valerius Diocletianus Augustus
• Father: Unknown • Mother: Unknown • Originated from: Dalmatia |
Fun Facts• Diocletian adorned fancy clothing of purple and gold, wore a diadem, and forced his subjects to kiss his feet
• Near the end of his reign, Diocletian began a campaign of persecuting Christians; oddly, his wife was Christian • When he retired, Diocletian ran a cabbage farm, where he grew cabbages until his death |