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Maximinus Thrax

Type Figure Region Thrace Time 173–238 Also known as Maximinus I、Gaius Julius Verus Maximinus

Maximinus Thrax, a 3rd-century Roman emperor of Thracian peasant origin, the first emperor from the ranks of the army;…

Timeline

  1. 173–232Thrace · ThraceOf Thracian peasant origin, enlisted in the legions for his great size and bravery, won repeated distinction under Alexander Severus, and rose to senior command, becoming a key general on the Rhine and Danube frontiers.
  2. 235Mainz · MainzAfter Alexander Severus was assassinated by his troops on the Rhine frontier, Maximinus was proclaimed emperor by the legions, becoming the first Roman emperor of non-senatorial origin and breaking the traditional pattern of elite rule.
  3. 235–237Rhine and Danube frontiers · GermaniaPersonally campaigned against and defeated Germanic tribes while levying taxes harshly and confiscating senatorial property to fund the army, deepening conflict with the Italian senatorial class and urban elites.
  4. 238Aquileia · Friuli-Venezia GiuliaA revolt in the African provinces proclaimed Gordian I and II as emperors, and Aquileia in Italy also refused allegiance; Maximinus besieged it unsuccessfully and was assassinated by the Praetorian Guard in a camp mutiny, triggering the chain of coups of the Year of the Four Emperors in 238 CE.

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