constantius

Constantius is the Latin given name associated with several notable rulers and officials of the late Roman Empire and early Byzantine period. The name is a form of Constantine and was used by members of the Constantinian dynasty and their successors.

Among the best known bearers are Constantius Chlorus and Constantius II. Constantius Chlorus, also called Flavius Valerius Constantius, was a high-ranking general who became Caesar in 305 and briefly ruled as Augustus in 305–306 before dying on campaign in Britain. He was the father of Constantine the Great and helped shape the line of succession during the Tetrarchy’s evolution. Constantius II, full name Flavius Julius Constantius, reigned as the eastern emperor from 337 to 361. A son of Constantine I, his long rule saw ongoing religious conflicts, military campaigns against the Sassanid Empire, and efforts to maintain unity within a diverse empire.

Constantius Gallus, often simply called Constantius Gallus, was Caesar of the East from 351 to 354, appointed by Constantius II to govern the eastern provinces. His tenure ended when he was recalled and executed amid political and military pressures in the eastern provinces. Constantius III was a later bearer of the name who briefly claimed the Western throne in 421 while allied with Galla Placidia; his reign lasted only a few months before his death, after which Valentinian III and Placidia continued to shape the western empire.

In summary, Constantius identifies several late antique emperors and high officials, reflecting the enduring use of the name within the Constantinian dynasty and its successors.