The Son of a Slave Who Became Roman Emperor

The Extraordinary Journey of Macrinus

In the annals of ancient history, the story of Macrinus stands as a testament to the extraordinary heights that one man can achieve, regardless of his humble beginnings. Born the son of a slave in the Roman province of Mauretania, Macrinus rose through the ranks of the military and eventually became the emperor of Rome. His reign was short-lived, but his life remains a fascinating tale of ambition, determination, and the unexpected twists of fate.

Pertinax: The Son of a Slave Who Became Roman Emperor

by Simon Elliott

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	40503 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	275 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

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Early Life and Military Career

Macrinus was born in 164 AD in the town of Caesarea, Mauretania (present-day Cherchell, Algeria). His father was a slave, and his mother's status is unknown. Despite his humble origins, Macrinus showed great promise from a young age. He joined the Roman army and quickly rose through the ranks. By the age of 30, he was a tribune, commanding a regiment of soldiers.

Macrinus' military career was marked by his bravery and leadership skills. He fought in several battles, including the Parthian War of 195-197 AD. His performance in battle caught the attention of Emperor Septimius Severus, who appointed him governor of the province of Gallia Belgica (present-day Belgium). As governor, Macrinus proved to be a competent administrator and a fair judge. He gained the respect of the people he ruled and the admiration of his fellow soldiers.

Rise to Power

In 217 AD, Emperor Caracalla was assassinated. Macrinus was one of several generals who claimed the throne. He quickly gained the support of the army and the Senate. In 218 AD, Macrinus was proclaimed emperor of Rome.

Macrinus' reign was marked by several challenges. He faced a civil war against the supporters of Caracalla's cousin, Elagabalus. He also had to deal with the threat of invasion from the Parthians. Despite these challenges, Macrinus proved to be a capable leader. He defeated Elagabalus and repelled the Parthian invasion. He also initiated several reforms, including a reduction in taxes and the establishment of a new legion.

The Fall of Macrinus

Macrinus' reign came to an end in 218 AD. He was defeated in battle by a general named Elagabalus, who had claimed the throne. Macrinus and his son, Diadumenian, were captured and executed. Elagabalus became the new emperor of Rome.

Legacy

Macrinus' reign was short-lived, but his life remains an inspiring story of ambition, determination, and the unexpected twists of fate. He rose from humble beginnings to become the emperor of one of the most powerful empires in history. His story is a reminder that anything is possible, regardless of one's circumstances.

Macrinus is often remembered as a competent and fair emperor. He was a skilled general and a respected administrator. He also initiated several reforms that benefited the people he ruled.

Macrinus' life is a reminder that even the son of a slave can achieve great things. His story is an inspiration to us all.

Additional Resources

• Macrinus on Encyclopedia Britannica
• Macrinus on Livius.org
• Macrinus: The Moor Who Became Emperor of Rome on The Collector

Pertinax: The Son of a Slave Who Became Roman Emperor

by Simon Elliott

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	40503 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	275 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE