BattlefieldsMagnus Maximus's Campaign against Picts and Scots
Roman Period

Magnus Maximus's Campaign against Picts and Scots

381–383
Stirlingshire, Scotland
Also known as: Maximus vs Northern Tribes 381-383 · Macsen Wledig's War
Era
Roman Period
Battle Type
Pitched Battle
Location
Stirlingshire, Scotland
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
Picts / Scots
Forces
Picts/Scots c. 2,000–4,000.
VS
Victor
Rome (Magnus Maximus)
Forces
Roman force under Magnus Maximus c. 3,000–5,000
Outcome
Picts and Scots defeated; Maximus acclaimed by troops; used victory as springboard to declare himself emperor
The Battle

History & Significance

Magnus Maximus served in Britain and won victories against the Picts and Scots before being proclaimed emperor by the British legions in 383 AD. In Welsh legend he became "Macsen Wledig" — a great hero who dreamed of a beautiful woman in a distant land. He crossed to Gaul with most of the British army, defeated and killed Gratian, and ruled as western emperor until defeated by Theodosius I in 388 AD. His withdrawal of troops from Britain may have permanently weakened its defences.

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