Roman Emperors

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Name:

Valerian
c. September 253 – c. June 260 (c. 6 years and 9 months)

Valerian became emperor during the Crisis of the Third Century and ruled jointly with his son Gallienus. He persecuted Christians and was later captured alive by the Persian king Shapur I.

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Gallienus
c. September 253 – c. September 268 (15 years)

Gallienus shared power with Valerian and then ruled alone during one of Rome's most dangerous periods. He fought invasions and usurpers while attempting important military reforms.

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Saloninus
Autumn 260 (c. 1 month)

Saloninus, son of Gallienus, was briefly proclaimed emperor in Gaul during the revolt of Postumus. His rule lasted only weeks before Cologne fell and he was killed.

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About the Empire

Christianity had its beginning and early growth during the time of imperial rule in Rome.

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Jesus was born during the rule of Rome's first emperor (Augustus) and his followers endured various levels of persecution during the reigns of many of the subsequent rulers. It wasn't until the early 4th Century under emperor Constantine the Great that Christianity became widely accepted by the governing state.

On these pages we present information about the Roman Emperors from Augustus to Constantine, along with some insights into the nature of what life was like as a Christian during the reigns of these men.

Family Tree
(Augustus to Diocletian)

Family Tree
(Diocletian to Constantine VI)