Gratian (AD 359–383)

Roman emperor from 375. On the death of his father, Valentinian I, he became emperor in the western part of the empire (Britain, Spain, and Gaul) and Valentinian II, his half-brother, became emperor of Italy, Africa, and Illyricum, under the regency of his mother, Justina. Gratian was defeated and killed by the Spanish soldier and usurper Maximus.

Gratian was born at Sirmium in Pannonia. In 378 he defeated the Lentienses at Argentaria, and in 379, with the help of Theodosius (emperor of the eastern part of the empire 379–95), drove the barbarians out of the Balkans. The early years of his rule were marked by energy and success, but later he aroused the contempt of the Roman troops, and they proclaimed Maximus, who was then in Britain, emperor. Maximus crossed to Gaul and defeated Gratian near Paris. Gratian fled, but was overthrown near Lyon and killed.