Constantius II

Reign: 337 – 361; 337 – 361
Life: 317–361

His reign saw constant warfare on the borders against the Sasanian Empire and Germanic peoples, while internally the Roman Empire went through repeated civil wars, court intrigues, and usurpations. His religious policies inflamed domestic conflicts that would continue after his death. The brothers divided the empire among themselves, with Constantius receiving Greece, Thrace, the Asian provinces, and Egypt in the east. In the meantime, his brothers Constantine and Constans warred over the western provinces of the empire, leaving the former dead in 340 and the latter as sole ruler of the west.

During Constantius II's reign, Arbogast ruled France, Emperor Nintoku ruled Japan, and Emperor Mu of Jin ruled China.

Want to learn more? Further reading

The Roman Emperors by Michael Grant

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The World During Their Reign

The most notable rulers who held power elsewhere at the same time, from European courts to Ottoman, Mughal, and Chinese thrones.

Meanwhile in history

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The Roman Emperors

Michael Grant

Constantius II, Arian controversy, Persian wars, and the sons of Constantine.

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