Britain’s forgotten pirate emperor
Roman Empire
- The Germans destroy the Roman fleet on the Rhine; Bonosus is proclaimed emperor at Colonia Agrippina (Cologne).
- Probus defeats the army under Bonosus. Bonosus sees no way out and hangs himself. His family is treated with honours.
- Roman territory is under constant threat of raids from Franks. The cities in Gaul are reinforced with defensive walls.
- Carausius, naval commander at Bononia (modern-day Boulogne), is given the task of clearing the English Channel of Frankish and Saxon pirates.
- Carausius, commander of the Classis Britannica, is accused of piracy by Maximian and is sentenced to death. He responds by declaring himself emperor of Britain and Northwestern Gaul. His forces consist of the newly built Roman fleet and three legions in Britain. The Carausian Revolt is supported by Gaulish merchant ships and Frankish mercenaries.
- Maximian attempts to reconquer Britain from the usurper Carausius but is defeated at sea.
Persia
- King Bahram II of the Sassanid Empire (Persia) sends envoys to seek peaceful relations with Rome.
India
- The Gupta Empire (India) is founded (approximate date).
