THE PERSIAN CAMPAIGN OF SEVERUS ALEXANDER

Abstract

The article is devoted to the study of the Persian campaign of Emperor Severus Alexander. The Roman Army crisis as well as the modalities for the preparation of the campaign against Ardashir the Unifier has been described. It is established the lack of authority of Severus Alexander among the Roman soldiers. The campaign was a necessity rather than an Emperor՚s initiative. The Roman ruler was well aware of the strength of the new enemy, the same way he realized all possible consequences of the campaign. The longterm preparation for this campaign was later interpreted as a sign of Alexander՚s weakness.There was a mutiny in the Roman army during the preparation for military operations. It testified about the precarious position of Alexander. However, he managed to restore order in the army, which enabled him to wage war. The Roman army operated in three groups, which was the most successful strategy. However, the underestimation of enemy՚s military maneuvers, excessive caution and fatigue of Roman legionaries became a negative factor. Ardashir made a quick march and defeated the southern Roman group. At a critical moment, Alexander realized the potential threat of total defeat of his troops, so he moved to Syria. The defeat of the southern group had a depressing effect on the Roman soldiers. However, the casualties were moderate and this made it possible to prepare for a new campaign. Nevertheless, the lack of a new threat from the Persians allowed Alexander to end the war.The war actually ended with a stalemate. Alexander succeeded in returning the eastern provinces under the rule of Rome and for a few years to stop the encroachments of the Sasanian Empire. In Rome, it was perceived as a success and allowed him to celebrate the triumph. However, significant military losses complicated the military-political situation in the Roman Empire. In fact, the Persian campaign was a prologue to the beginning of the third-century crisis.