Libius Severus

AncientEmperorWestern Roman Empire420 — 465

Puppet emperor of Ricimer.

Compare Libius Severus with another historical figure:

Quick Facts

Born

420

Died

465

Country

Western Roman Empire

Era

Ancient

Occupation

Emperor

Score Overview

Military (10%)30

Political (20%)39

Influence (20%)55

Legacy (20%)39

Leadership (15%)50

Strategy (15%)39

Total Score43.7

Libius Severus — Complete Timeline

461 AD

Proclaimed Western Roman Emperor by RicimerPolitical Action◆ Major

After the death of Majorian, the magister militum Ricimer proclaimed Libius Severus as Western Roman Emperor. Severus was a senator with no significant military or political experience, and his reign was entirely controlled by Ricimer.

Imperial SuccessionPuppet Emperor

Impact: regional

462 AD

Reign marked by loss of control over provincesPolitical Action◆ Major

During Severus's reign, the Western Roman Empire lost effective control over several provinces. The Eastern Emperor Leo I refused to recognize him, and the general Aegidius established an independent domain in Gaul, further fragmenting imperial authority.

Loss of TerritoryImperial Decline

Impact: regionaldestructive

465 AD

Died under suspicious circumstancesOther◆ Major

Libius Severus died, possibly poisoned by Ricimer, after a reign of four years. His death left the Western imperial throne vacant for two years, as Ricimer did not immediately appoint a successor, highlighting the powerlessness of the emperor.

DeathImperial Succession

Impact: regionaltragic