The Roman Tetrarchy Under Diocletian, 293–305 CE

An Empire Rebuilt — Stability Through Division, Succession by Design

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Simeon Netchev
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published on 23 February 2024
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The Roman Tetrarchy Under Diocletian, 293–305 CE Download Full Size Image

This map illustrates the Roman Tetrarchy, a four-part imperial system established by Emperor Diocletian (reigned 284–305 CE) in 293 CE to stabilize and defend the sprawling Roman Empire. It aimed to address political instability, streamline governance, and improve military responsiveness by sharing imperial authority among multiple rulers across different regions.

The Tetrarchy (from the Greek tetrarchia, meaning “rule of four”) divided the empire into two senior emperors (Augusti) and two junior emperors (Caesars). Diocletian ruled the East as Augustus with Galerius (reigned as Caesar 293–305 CE, then as Augustus 305–311 CE) as his Caesar, while Maximian (reigned as Augustus 286–305 CE) governed the West with Constantius Chlorus (reigned as Caesar 293–305 CE, then as Augustus 305–306 CE) as his junior. Each ruler controlled a separate region with its own military and administrative apparatus, yet the empire remained nominally unified. This model allowed for decentralized leadership, improved border defense, and a planned system of succession through mentorship. However, after Diocletian and Maximian voluntarily abdicated in 305 CE, the delicate balance collapsed into rivalry and civil war, ultimately paving the way for Constantine the Great (reigned 306–337 CE) and a return to centralized rule.

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About the Author

Simeon Netchev
Simeon is a freelance visual designer and history teacher, passionate about the human stories that shape the past. He believes every image should tell a story and invite interaction, while every map should lead on a journey — blending imagination with e

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APA Style

Netchev, S. (2024, February 23). The Roman Tetrarchy Under Diocletian, 293–305 CE. World History Encyclopedia. Retrieved from https://www.worldhistory.org/image/18530/the-roman-tetrarchy-under-diocletian-293-305-ce/

Chicago Style

Netchev, Simeon. "The Roman Tetrarchy Under Diocletian, 293–305 CE." World History Encyclopedia. Last modified February 23, 2024. https://www.worldhistory.org/image/18530/the-roman-tetrarchy-under-diocletian-293-305-ce/.

MLA Style

Netchev, Simeon. "The Roman Tetrarchy Under Diocletian, 293–305 CE." World History Encyclopedia. World History Encyclopedia, 23 Feb 2024, https://www.worldhistory.org/image/18530/the-roman-tetrarchy-under-diocletian-293-305-ce/. Web. 15 Jun 2025.

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