Galerius and the Revolt of the Thebaid in 293/4

Abstract

The First Tetrarchy was inaugurated in March 293 (all dates are A.D.) with the nomination of two Caesars to assist the existing two Augusti. In the west, Constantius I was named Caesar and immediately given the task of wresting Britain from the usurpers Carausius and Allectus. In the east, Galerius received imperial authority, although apparently entrusted with less specific labours. Scholars had once assumed that Galerius took up station defending the Danube frontier. Then, in 297, he was called forth from there to meet the threat of Narses, the Persian king, who had invaded Mesopotamia whilst Diocletian was busy elsewhere.