Sextus Julius Severus facts for kids

Gnaeus Minicius Faustinus Sextus Julius Severus was an important Roman general who lived a long time ago, in the 100s AD. He was also a top government official called a suffect consul for a few months in the year 127.

Who Was Julius Severus?

Julius Severus was born in a place called Colonia Claudia Aequum. This was in Dalmatia, which is now a small village called Čitluk in Bosnia-Herzegovina.

He had a very successful career in the Roman army and government. He served as a Governor in a region called Moesia. Around the year 131, he became the Governor of Britain.

Julius Severus: The Roman Troubleshooter

From 133 to about 135 AD, Julius Severus was sent to Judaea. His mission was to help stop the Bar Kokhba revolt there. This was a big uprising against Roman rule.

Because of his strong military skills, historians often see him as a "troubleshooter." This means he was sent to difficult provinces to bring peace, often by using military force. His arrival in Judaea showed how serious the revolt was.

Some historians think his move from Britain might mean there were problems there too. However, we don't have archaeological proof of fighting in Britain during his time. Still, a writer named Fronto mentioned many soldiers dying in Britain under Emperor Hadrian. This might refer to some trouble during this period.

The ancient historian Cassius Dio wrote about Julius Severus:

"Soon [132], however, all Judaea had been stirred up, and the Jews everywhere were showing signs of disturbance ... Hadrian sent against them his best generals. The first of these was Julius Severus, who was dispatched from Britain, where he was governor, against the Jews." – Cassius Dio, History of Rome LXIX.xiii.1-2 - Epitome of Xiphilinus