The Later Roman Empire: Rebellions and Breakaway Empires

The Later Roman Empire saw a period of turmoil marked by rebellions and the rise of breakaway empires. As the Western Roman Empire faced internal strife and external threats, various regions attempted to assert their independence or establish their own ruling dynasties.

One of the most notable breakaway empires was the Gallic Empire, established by Postumus in the 3rd century. Centered in Gaul, Britannia, and parts of Germania, the Gallic Empire lasted for over a decade before being reintegrated into the Roman Empire.

Another significant rebellion was the Palmyrene Empire, led by Queen Zenobia in the 3rd century. This breakaway state encompassed parts of the Eastern Roman Empire and challenged Roman authority in the region until it was eventually defeated by Emperor Aurelian.

These rebellions and breakaway empires reflected the weakening grip of the central Roman government over its vast territories. The fragmentation of the empire into smaller entities contributed to its eventual decline and fall, marking the end of ancient Rome as a unified political entity.