Maxentius was the son of Maximianus and a talented soldier. On 28 October 306 A.D., in rebellion against Severus II, the Italians and Praetorian Guard raised Maxentius to the rank of Caesar. He quickly invited his father, who had been forced to abdicate, to resume rule. Although declared a public enemy at the famed Conference of Carnutum, Maxentius remained in control of Italy until 312 A.D. At the famous Battle of Milvian Bridge he fell from the bridge and drowned in the Tiber. His demoralized army was defeated by Constantine I.