Aurelian

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Aurelian (Lucius Domitius Aurelianus) , c.212–275, Roman emperor (270–75). Rising in the ranks, he became consul under Valerian. He succeeded Claudius II , whose victory over the Goths had begun the territorial rehabilitation of the empire. Aurelian conceded Dacia to the Goths but consolidated the Danubian provinces and held the barbarians beyond the Rhine in check. His most brilliant exploits were in the East—especially in Palmyra, where he captured Zenobia and destroyed her kingdom. Aurelian went to Gaul, where he received the submission of the independent "Emperor" Tetricus. One of Rome's greatest emperors, Aurelian regained Britain, Gaul, Spain, Egypt, Syria, and Mesopotamia and removed for a while the barbarian threat to the eastern provinces. He fortified Rome with a wall some 12 mi (19 km) in circumference, averaging more than 40 ft (12.2 m) in height. Much of it still remains. Aurelian was murdered, and Marcus Claudius Tacitus succeeded him.

Aurelian (full name Lucius Domitius Aurelianus) (c.215–75) Roman emperor (270–75). Originally a common soldier, he rose through the ranks and was elected emperor by the army. By a series of military campaigns, including the defeat of Queen Zenobia at Palmyra (272), he successfully quelled rebellions and repelled barbarian invaders; he also built new walls round Rome, and established the state worship of the Sun. He was assassinated by his own army officers.

Aurelian (c.215–75) Roman Emperor. Having risen through the army ranks, he succeeded Claudius II in 270. His victories against the Goths, reconquest of Palmyra and recovery of Gaul and Britain earned him the title ‘Restorer of the World’. He built the Aurelian Wall to protect Rome and was assassinated in a complex military plot.

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