Postumus

AncientEmperorGallic Empire220 — 269

Founded the breakaway Gallic Empire, stable for 9 years.

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Quick Facts

Born

220

Died

269

Country

Gallic Empire

Era

Ancient

Occupation

Emperor

Score Overview

Military (10%)60

Political (20%)68

Influence (20%)49

Legacy (20%)43

Leadership (15%)70

Strategy (15%)60

Total Score55.5

Postumus — Complete Timeline

260 AD

Proclaimed emperor in Gaul after Valerian's capturePolitical Action

Following the capture of Emperor Valerian by the Sassanids, Postumus was proclaimed emperor by his troops in Gaul. He established the Gallic Empire, a breakaway state comprising Gaul, Britain, and Hispania, with its capital at Colonia Agrippina.

Gallic EmpireUsurpationCrisis of the Third Century

Impact: regional

261 AD

Defeated Gallienus at the Battle of MursaWar◆ Major

Postumus repelled an invasion by Emperor Gallienus, defeating him at the Battle of Mursa. This victory secured the Gallic Empire's independence and forced Gallienus to abandon attempts to reconquer the western provinces.

BattleGallic EmpireRoman Civil War

Impact: regional

269 AD

Stabilized the Gallic Empire for nine yearsPolitical Action◆ Major

Postumus successfully defended the Gallic Empire against both internal usurpers and external Germanic invasions for nine years. His reign provided stability to the western provinces during the Crisis of the Third Century, with effective administration and coinage.

Gallic EmpireStabilityAdministration

Impact: regionalconstructive

Killed by his own troops after refusing to sack MainzPolitical Action◆ Major

After defeating the usurper Laelianus at Mainz, Postumus refused to allow his troops to sack the city. His soldiers mutinied and killed him, ending his reign. His death led to a period of instability in the Gallic Empire.

MutinyDeathGallic Empire

Impact: regionaltragic