Bahram II

Bahram II, the fifth Sasanian King of Kings, ruled Iran from two hundred seventy-four to two hundred ninety-three. Ascending the throne in his teens, he was the son of Bahram I and received support from the influential Zoroastrian priest Kartir, mirroring the path of his father.

His reign was marked by significant challenges, including a rebellion in the east led by his brother, Hormizd I Kushanshah, who claimed the title of King of Kings. Additionally, Bahram II faced another uprising from his cousin Hormizd of Sakastan and a Zoroastrian factional revolt in Khuzestan, which further complicated his rule.

In two hundred eighty-three, the Roman emperor Carus took advantage of the unrest in Iran, launching a campaign into Mesopotamia. At that time, Bahram II was in the east and struggled to mount an effective defense, potentially losing his capital, Ctesiphon. However, following Carus's unexpected death, the Roman forces withdrew, allowing the Sasanians to reclaim Mesopotamia.

By the end of his reign, Bahram II had successfully negotiated peace with the Roman emperor Diocletian and quelled the disturbances in Khuzestan and the east. He also strengthened Sasanian authority in the Caucasus by securing the Iberian throne for Mirian III, an Iranian nobleman.

Notably, Bahram II is believed to be the first Sasanian ruler to mint coins featuring his family. He commissioned several rock reliefs that prominently displayed his family and the high nobility, leaving a lasting legacy. He was succeeded by his son Bahram III, who ruled for a brief four months before being overthrown by Narseh, a descendant of Shapur I.