BattlefieldsMagnus Maximus Declared Emperor in Britain
Roman Period

Magnus Maximus Declared Emperor in Britain

383
North Yorkshire, England
Also known as: Proclamation of Maximus 383 AD · British Legions' Last Emperor
Era
Roman Period
Battle Type
Skirmish
Location
North Yorkshire, England
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
Loyalists of Gratian
Forces
Gratian loyalists c. 2,000–3,000.
VS
Victor
Magnus Maximus
Forces
Magnus Maximus force c. 4,000–6,000
Outcome
Maximus acclaimed as Augustus; crossed to Gaul with bulk of British garrison; Britain seriously denuded of troops
The Battle

History & Significance

When Maximus crossed to Gaul in 383 AD, he took with him much of the British field army. Gratian was defeated and killed near Paris. Maximus ruled as emperor of the West for five years before being defeated by Theodosius. The troops he took to Gaul may never have returned — some historians see this as the effective end of the Roman military presence in Britain as an offensive force.

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