Tetricus

Gaius Pius Esuvius Tetricus, commonly known as Tetricus, was the last emperor of the Gallic Empire, a breakaway state that separated from the Roman Empire during the Crisis of the Third Century. He reigned from 270 to 274 AD. Initially, Tetricus served as the governor of Gallia Belgica. Following the assassination of his predecessor, the emperor Victorinus, Tetricus was proclaimed emperor by the legions in 270 AD.

The Gallic Empire encompassed Roman Gaul, Britannia, and Hispania. Tetricus inherited a realm facing internal strife and external threats. He attempted to restore order and stability within his territories. However, his reign was largely characterized by the struggle to maintain his independence from the resurgent Roman Empire under Emperor Aurelian.

In 274 AD, Aurelian launched a campaign to reunite the empire. Tetricus met Aurelian's forces at the Battle of the Catalaunian Plains. Historical accounts suggest that Tetricus surrendered to Aurelian, possibly after a pre-arranged agreement. This surrender effectively brought an end to the Gallic Empire and its independent existence.

Despite the short-lived nature of his empire, Tetricus is notable for being the final ruler of this Gallic secession. After his defeat, he was treated with clemency by Aurelian, even being allowed to retain his senatorial rank and live out his days in Italy. The coins issued during his reign provide much of the primary evidence for his rule and the extent of the Gallic Empire.