Gratianus

Gratianus, Augustus (359-383), Roman Emperor, son of Valentinian I., was born at Sirmium in Pannonia. While still a child he accompanied his father in a campaign against the Alemanni. On his death in 375, he became ruler over the Western Empire in conjunction with his younger brother, Valentinian II., Gaul, Spain, and Britain being allotted to Gratian. The early part of his reign was occupied with wars against the Alemanni and other barbarians. In 378 he succeeded his uncle Valens (q.v.) as ruler of the Eastern Empire, but gave a share in the sovereignty to Theodosius (q.v.).

Gratian's private character was estimable, and his hostility to paganism secured the favour of trie Church, but his luxurious habits made him unpopular with the army. Maximus was proclaimed emperor by the legion in Britain, and, after a defeat near Paris, Gratian fled to Lyons, where he was slain by one of his adversary's adherents.