The Aftermath of Aurelian's Murder

Aurelian's assassination led to significant turmoil within the Roman Empire, as it marked the end of a leader who had successfully reunited Rome. Following his death, the Senate attempted to exercise its authority by appointing Marcus Claudius Tacitus as the new emperor, a decision that was historically contentious due to the army's usual dominance in the selection process. Sources indicate a notable delay in the proclamation of Tacitus, attributed to a brief interregnum after Aurelian's demise, during which no one was immediately acclaimed as emperor. This period of uncertainty raised questions about the balance of power between the Senate and the military in the wake of Aurelian's violent end and set the stage for the unique political climate of the era.