The Roman Empire during the first half of the third century AD experienced a rapid succession of no less than eight Emperors, battling the Persians in the east and the invading Goths on the northern border. Each one of these eight came to a violent end, either succumbing in battle or at the hands of assassins, often dispatched by their own men. Treachery and mutiny were common among the fickle forces, out to back whomever candidate could secure them the most battle booty. Encouraged by the purple cloak being up for grabs by whomever had the strongest military backing, usurpers challenged the legitimate Emperors at every turn. To make matters worse, the Empire was plagued by the Cyprian plague. One
