Bonosus (usurper) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Bonosus |
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| Usurper of the Roman Empire | |||||||||
Antoninianus of Bonosus
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| Reign | c. AD 280 (against Probus) | ||||||||
| Died | 280 AD | ||||||||
| Wife |
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| Issue | two sons | ||||||||
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| Father | A Briton | ||||||||
| Mother | A Gaul | ||||||||
Bonosus (died AD 280) was a Roman general who tried to become Roman emperor in the late 3rd century. People who try to take the throne by force are called usurpers. Bonosus was born in Hispania (which is now Spain).
Contents
Who Was Bonosus?
Bonosus had a British father and a Gallic mother. His father was a teacher of public speaking, also known as a rhetorician. Sadly, Bonosus's father died when he was young. However, his mother made sure he still received a good education.
A Military Career
Bonosus joined the Roman army and had a very successful career. He was known for his excellent service. He moved up through many different ranks and leadership positions. He became a respected general.
The Fleet Disaster and Rebellion
Around the year 280 AD, Bonosus was in charge of the Roman fleet on the Rhine. This fleet was called the Classis Germanica. Unfortunately, during his command, the Germans managed to set the entire fleet on fire.
Bonosus was very worried about what would happen to him because of this disaster. To avoid punishment, he decided to declare himself Roman emperor. He did this in a city called Colonia Agrippina (modern-day Cologne). He joined forces with another general named Proculus who also wanted to be emperor.
Defeat and Legacy
Bonosus's rebellion led to a long fight against the true Roman emperor, Probus. Eventually, Probus defeated Bonosus. Bonosus died in 280 AD after his defeat.
Even though Bonosus was a usurper, Emperor Probus treated his family with respect. Bonosus had a wife and two sons. Probus made sure they were honored and cared for, which was unusual for the families of defeated enemies at that time.
See also
In Spanish: Bonoso para niños
