Assassination of Emperor Elagabalus and Ascension of Severus Alexander

On March 11, 222, a significant event unfolded in the Roman Empire: the assassination of Emperor Elagabalus by the Praetorian Guard, which led to the ascension of his cousin, Severus Alexander, as the new emperor. This event marked a pivotal moment in the Severan dynasty and had lasting implications for the Roman Empire.

Background

Elagabalus, born Varius Avitus Bassianus, became emperor in 218 at the age of 14, following the death of his cousin, Emperor Caracalla. His reign was marked by controversy and scandal, largely due to his religious zeal and unconventional behavior. Elagabalus was a high priest of the sun god Elagabal, and he attempted to elevate this deity above the traditional Roman pantheon, which alienated the Roman Senate and populace.

His eccentricities extended to his personal life, with reports of extravagant and decadent behavior, which further eroded his support among the Roman elite. The young emperor’s disregard for Roman traditions and his erratic rule created widespread dissatisfaction.

The Assassination

The discontent with Elagabalus reached a tipping point in 222. The Praetorian Guard, the elite unit responsible for the protection of Roman emperors, became increasingly disillusioned with his leadership. The Guard, along with other factions within the Roman political structure, plotted to remove him from power.

On March 11, 222, Elagabalus and his mother, Julia Soaemias, were assassinated by members of the Praetorian Guard during a revolt. Their bodies were desecrated, and Elagabalus was ultimately thrown into the Tiber River, a testament to the deep-seated animosity he had engendered.

Ascension of Severus Alexander

Following the assassination, the Praetorian Guard proclaimed Elagabalus’s cousin, Severus Alexander, as the new emperor. Severus Alexander, born Marcus Aurelius Severus Alexander, was only 13 years old at the time of his ascension. Despite his youth, he was seen as a more stable and traditional choice, largely due to the influence of his mother, Julia Mamaea, and grandmother, Julia Maesa, who were instrumental in his rise to power.

Aftermath and Historical Significance

Severus Alexander’s reign marked a return to more conventional Roman values and governance, which helped stabilize the empire temporarily. However, his rule was also characterized by challenges, including military conflicts and internal strife, which would eventually lead to his downfall in 235.

The assassination of Elagabalus and the subsequent rise of Severus Alexander highlight the volatility of Roman imperial politics and the significant influence of the Praetorian Guard in determining the fate of emperors. This event underscored the precarious nature of leadership in ancient Rome and set the stage for further instability in the empire’s leadership in the years to come.