238Mar, 22
Gordian I and his son Gordian II are proclaimed Roman emperors.
Gordian I (Latin: Marcus Antonius Gordianus Sempronianus Romanus; c. 158 – April 238 AD) was Roman emperor for 22 days with his son Gordian II in 238, the Year of the Six Emperors. Caught up in a rebellion against the Emperor Maximinus Thrax, he was defeated by forces loyal to Maximinus, and he committed suicide after the death of his son.
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Events on 238
- 7Mar
Maximinus Thrax
Roman subjects in the province of Africa revolt against Maximinus Thrax and elect Gordian I as emperor. - 12Apr
Battle of Carthage (238)
Gordian II loses the Battle of Carthage against the Numidian forces loyal to Maximinus Thrax and is killed. Gordian I, his father, commits suicide. - 22Apr
Maximinus Thrax
Year of the Six Emperors: The Roman Senate outlaws emperor Maximinus Thrax for his bloodthirsty proscriptions in Rome and nominates two of its members, Pupienus and Balbinus, to the throne. - 29Jul
Pupienus and Balbinus
The Praetorian Guard storm the palace and capture Pupienus and Balbinus. They are dragged through the streets of Rome and executed. On the same day, Gordian III, age 13, is proclaimed emperor.