Emperor Macrinus: Usurper of Rome
The Ancients
Deep Dive
Why did Caracalla grant Roman citizenship to nearly every free person in the empire?
Caracalla aimed to secure a vast loyalty base after murdering Geta, using citizenship as a political expedient to solidify his rule and redefine the narrative of his reign.
How did Julia Domna contribute to the administration of Caracalla's reign?
Julia Domna held extensive honorary titles and was deeply involved in the administrative duties of the empire, including answering imperial letters, holding public receptions, and being included in official communications with the Senate.
Why did Macrinus allow Julia Domna to retain her titles and guard after Caracalla's death?
Macrinus' decision to keep Julia Domna as Augusta and retain her Praetorian Guard was likely an attempt to maintain continuity with the Severan dynasty, despite her son's murder, and to avoid immediate conflict with the influential Severan family.
How did Julia Maesa manage to orchestrate a coup against Macrinus?
Julia Maesa leveraged her family's wealth and regional influence, particularly through the cult of Elagabal, to bribe and rally support from the Third Gallic Legion, ultimately leading to the acclamation of her grandson Elagabalus as emperor.
What was the significance of Macrinus' defeat at the Battle of Antioch?
Macrinus' defeat at the Battle of Antioch marked the end of his brief reign and the beginning of the Severan restoration, led by Julia Maesa and her family, who successfully rallied the military support needed to place Elagabalus on the throne.
Why is Macrinus' legacy largely overlooked in historical accounts?
Macrinus' legacy is overshadowed by the subsequent Severan dynasty and his own short-lived reign. Historians like Cassius Dio, a contemporary senator, viewed him with snobbery due to his equestrian background, contributing to his marginalization in historical narratives.
- Macrinus was born in the Roman province of Mauritania.
- He was a member of the equestrian order, not a senatorial family.
- Macrinus was trained as a lawyer and rose through the ranks to become Praetorian prefect.
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