Gratian in Roman Biography

Gratian, gra'she-an, [Lat. Gratia'nus ; Fr. Gratikn, gRi'sej^.N',) a Roman emperor, who in 375 A.D. succeeded his father, Valentinian I., and became joint ruler of the Western Empire with his brother, Valentinian II. His uncle, Valens, who ruled the Eastern Empire, having fallen in battle in 378, Gratian appointed Theodosius in his place. In 383 a revolt broke out in Britain, and a certain Maximus proclaimed himself emperor and invaded Gaul. Gratian advanced to meet him, but, being forsaken by the greater part of his army, was seized and put to death at Lyons. He was distinguished for his justice and clemency, and his zeal in promoting Christianity. See Gibbon, "Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire," books x"xvii., xxviii.,xxix.,and xxx. ; Ammianus Marcri.linus; Socrates, Historia Ecclesiastica ;" Tiu.kmont, " Histoire des Empereurs."