The Ancients Emperor Diocletian and the Great Persecution
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Dec 21, 2025 
Dr. David Gwynn, a historian specializing in late Roman history, joins to discuss the fascinating rise of Emperor Diocletian from humble Balkan soldier to Roman leader. He details Diocletian's critical reforms that helped stabilize the empire during a turbulent era, including the formation of the Tetrarchy with his fellow rulers. The conversation delves into the darker legacy of Diocletian as he instigated the Great Persecution of Christians, exploring how logistical limits ultimately led to its failure and examining the enduring impact of his reign.
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Turning Point Between Two Romes
- Diocletian rescued the Roman Empire from the third-century crisis by reorganizing power and stabilizing institutions.
- His reforms mark a clear break between the high empire and the later Roman Empire, alongside Constantine.
From Balkan Peasant To Emperor
- Diocles (Diocletian) rose from Balkan peasant origins through the army to command the imperial bodyguard.
- He seized power after a chaotic period when several emperors died and he was well-placed with army support.
Delegation As Empire Strategy
- Diocletian's key innovation was structured delegation: first a diarchy, then the tetrarchy, to manage the empire's vast frontiers.
- He selected loyal, capable Balkan soldiers rather than aristocrats and assigned clear seniority roles.