Macrianus Major

Macrianus Major, born around the year two hundred fifty, was a notable figure in the Roman Empire, serving as a military officer, politician, and military personnel. His career was marked by his role as Count of the Treasury, overseeing markets and provisions, a position that likely indicated his Equestrian status. The Historia Augusta suggests he was one of the leading military commanders under Emperor Valerian, although this claim is often regarded as an exaggeration.

During the ill-fated campaign against the Persians in the years two hundred fifty-nine or two hundred sixty, Macrianus accompanied Valerian but remained at Samosata during the critical battle of Edessa. His involvement in the events surrounding this battle remains uncertain. Following Valerian's capture by the Sassanid Emperor Shapur I, his son Gallienus ascended to the throne but faced challenges in the West, allowing Macrianus to seize the moment.

With the backing of Balista, a fellow military commander, and the influence gained from controlling Valerian's treasury, Macrianus elevated his sons, Macrianus Minor and Quietus, to positions of power. However, he himself could not claim the imperial title due to a physical deformity affecting one of his legs. While Quietus and Balista remained in the East to solidify their rule, Macrianus Major and Minor led an army from Asia to Europe.

Unfortunately, their campaign ended in tragedy when they were defeated in Thrace in the year two hundred sixty-one by Aureolus. Both Macrianus and his son lost their lives in this battle, with reports indicating their forces were encircled and surrendered, save for the Pannonian legions. In a final act of defiance, Macrianus requested to be killed alongside his son to avoid capture by Aureolus. The fate of Quietus was similarly grim, as he was later murdered by Odaenathus of Palmyra.