Magnentius

AncientGeneralRoman Empire303 — 353

Usurper who killed Constans, committed suicide.

Compare Magnentius with another historical figure:

Quick Facts

Born

303

Died

353

Country

Roman Empire

Era

Ancient

Occupation

General

Score Overview

Military (10%)40

Political (20%)35

Influence (20%)46

Legacy (20%)37

Leadership (15%)63

Strategy (15%)60

Total Score45.2

Magnentius — Complete Timeline

350 AD

Usurpation and assassination of ConstansPolitical Action◆ Major

Magnentius, a Roman general of barbarian origin, was proclaimed emperor by his troops in Gaul. He led a coup against Emperor Constans, who was killed while fleeing. This act divided the Roman Empire between Magnentius in the West and Constantius II in the East.

UsurpationCivil WarRoman Empire

Impact: regionaldestructive

351 AD

Battle of Mursa MajorWar◆ Major

Magnentius fought a major battle against Constantius II at Mursa (modern Osijek, Croatia). The battle was one of the bloodiest in Roman history, with heavy losses on both sides. Magnentius was defeated, weakening his position and leading to his eventual downfall.

Civil WarBattleRoman Empire

Impact: regionaltragic

353 AD

Battle of Mons SeleucusWar◆ Major

After retreating to Gaul, Magnentius was decisively defeated by Constantius II's forces at Mons Seleucus in southeastern Gaul. This defeat ended his rebellion. Magnentius fled to Lugdunum (Lyon) and committed suicide.

Civil WarBattleSuicide

Impact: regionaltragic