The Tetrarchy was a system of rule created by the Roman emperor Diocletian, who recognized that a single ruler could no longer defend such a vast empire. After becoming emperor in 284, he appointed Maximian as co-emperor in the west, and in 293 added two junior emperors, Galerius and Constantius, forming a college of four rulers with separate capitals. Each emperor controlled a part of the empire and was responsible for its defense, while Diocletian remained the senior figure. The arrangement improved administration and security, but it did not provide a lasting method of succession. After Diocletian and Maximian retired in 305, it broke down in civil wars, and Constantine eventually became sole emperor.
Before and after
- 271 CEConstruction of Aurelian Walls
- 27 February 272 CEBirth of Constantine the Great
- 274 CEAurelian reunifies the Roman Empire
- 278 CEDiscovery of 278 Paulina
- from 284 CE to 306 CERoman Tetrarchy
- from 284 CE to 565 CEDominate
- from 285 CE to 1453Byzantine Empire
- from 285 CE to 476 CEWestern Roman Empire
- 293 CEConstruction of Diocletian's Palace
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- 25 March 421 CEFounding of Venice
The era
This moment belongs to the Ancient civilizations (3,200 BCE to 500 CE), writing, cities and empires. You can also browse everything in the 3rd century.