tetrarchic

Tetrarchic refers to a system of rule by four individuals, known as tetrarchs. This political structure was most notably implemented by the Roman Empire. The Tetrarchy was established by Emperor Diocletian in 293 CE as a solution to the ongoing crises and internal strife plaguing the Roman Empire. Under this system, the empire was divided into Eastern and Western halves, with each half governed by an Augustus (senior emperor) and a Caesar (junior emperor). The Augusti were responsible for overall governance and military command, while the Caesars were their designated successors and assisted in administration and defense. This arrangement was intended to ensure a more orderly succession and to provide more effective defense against barbarian invasions and internal rebellions by having more rulers in place. The idea was that each tetrarch would be responsible for a specific region, leading to quicker responses to threats. However, the Tetrarchy was ultimately a temporary solution and did not survive Diocletian's abdication in 305 CE, eventually leading to civil wars and the eventual reunification of the empire under a single ruler. The term "tetrarchic" can also be used more generally to describe any form of government or rule involving four co-rulers, though its primary association remains with the Roman period.