Gordian I, Emperor of Rome
Marcus Antonius Gordianus Sempronianus Romanus Africanus was a Roman emperor who was more commonly known by his English name Gordian I. He held the position of emperor for only a short time in the year 238 AD.
Unlike the other Roman emperors, relatively little details are known about Gordian's life during childhood and the background of his immediate family. His name "Gordianus" however, has suggested to historians that he may have been able to trace his family's roots to Phrygia in Anatolia.
Although of modest political influence, his family was considered extremely wealthy for the time (being of the equestrian class) and Gordian himself managed to climb to the top of the Roman political hierarchy largely through his own considerable talents and perseverance. He prevailed in his efforts until he managed to secure a position in the Roman senate.
Written records have shown that Gordian fathered at least two children during his lifetime, a son named Marcus Antonius Gordianus (who later ascended to the throne as Gordian II) and a daughter named Antonia Gordiana (she would later give birth to Gordian III).
Unlike many of his predecessors, Gordian entered the Roman political arena somewhat late in life. It is thought that he instead spent many of the years leading up to his entry into public office in the study of rhetoric and other literary pursuits.
He did serve in the military for a time, most notably in Syria where he was placed in command of the Legion IV Scythica. The year 216 AD would find him assuming the position of governor in Roman occupied Britain as well as a position as a suffect consul in the reign of Elagabalus.
Whatever activities he may have been involved in at that time, there appears to be some historical information that pointed to a rift between Gordian and the ruling class at that time. This theory is supported by the discovery of a few Roman Britain inscriptions wherein Gordian's name appears to have been partially erased.
As an aedile, Gordian experienced a period of renewed popularity particularly for his productions that featured magnificent games and captivating shows. At the same time, he lived the quiet and peaceful life of the retired and in doing so, put to rest the suspicion of Emperor Caracalla. Gordian even wrote a long epic poem in the emperor's honour. This literary work was entitled Antoninias.
Nevertheless he retained and indeed, somehow even managed to increase his already considerable wealth and political influence, even through the chaotic reign of the Severan dynasty. This is probably the best indicator of Gordian distaste for political intrigue and gossip.
The reign of Alexander Severus finally came to an end with the emperor's execution by the new claimant to the throne, Maximinus Thrax. Alas, Maximinus would prove to have little or no support from the citizenry and in the wake of growing discontent, a rebellion erupted in Africa in 238 AD that effectively put an end to his reign. Gordian gave in to public clamour and accepted the title of Africanus on March 22. He would only be in power for thirty-six days before a defeat at the Battle of Carthage caused him to take his own life.
Original Authors: Doods Pangburn
Edit Update Authors: M.A.Harris
Updated On: 14/05/2008
