Italy: Magnentius (303-353), usurper emperor, from the book Romanorvm imperatorvm effigies: elogijs ex diuersis scriptoribus per Thomam Treteru S. Mariae Transtyberim canonicum collectis, 1583

Magnentius (303-353) was born in Gaul and served as a commander in the Western Roman army. When the army grew dissatisfied with the rule of Emperor Constans, they proclaimed Magnentius as the new emperor in 350 and killed Constans.

Magnentius quickly gained the loyalty of the provinces of Britannia, Gaul and Hispania, due to his more tolerant attitude towards Christians and Pagans. He also controlled parts of Africa and Italia, but soon faced resistance from the surviving members of the Constantinian dynasty and rival claimants, such as Vetranio, who was elected emperor by his troops in opposition to Magnentius.

Magnentius elected Magnus Decentius, likely his brother, to be co-emperor to aid against Constantius II's forces, and the two armies clashed at the Battle of Mursa Major in 351. Magnentius was said to have personally led his troops into battle, while Constantius was praying in a nearby church. Despite his heroism, Magnentius still lost and retreated to Gaul. He made a final stand in 353 in the Battle of Mons Seleucus, where he committed suicide by falling on his sword after being defeated for the last time.

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