Several generals in different provinces were declared Emperor. The
Empire nearly fell to pieces, but finally rallied without loss of
territory. Its weakness, however, was apparent to all. This period is
often called the AGE OF THE THIRTY TYRANTS.




FIVE GOOD EMPERORS (268-283).


FIVE GOOD EMPERORS now ruled and revived somewhat the shattered
strength of the government: CLAUDIUS (268-270); AURELIAN (270-275);
TACITUS (275-276); PROBUS (276-282); and CARUS (282-283). Aurelian
undertook a campaign against the famous ZENOBIA, Queen of PALMÝRA. In
her he found a worthy foe, one whose political ability was rendered
more brilliant by her justice and courage. Defeated in the field, she
fortified herself in Palmýra, which was taken after a siege and
destroyed. Zenobia was carried to Rome, where she graced the triumph
of her conqueror, but was afterwards permitted to live in retirement.
Aurelian was the first who built the walls of Rome in their present
position.


DIOCLETIAN (284-305).

With this ruler, the last vestige of the old republican form of
government at Rome disappears. Old Rome was dead. Her Senate had lost
the last remnant of its respectability. Seeing the necessity of a more
united country and a firmer rule, DIOCLETIAN associated with himself