033a. Gordian I Africanus

Senate-supported Usurper 22 March -- 12 April 238

Gordian Senior was the governor in North Africa who reportedly was in his 80's. With support from the Roman Senate, members of which were very opposed to Maximinus's rule, Gordian and his son Gordian Junior launched a bid for emperor. The governor of neighboring Numidia, however, remained loyal to Maximinus, and he attacked the untrained forces of Gordian, which were routed quickly. Gordian Junior was killed in the battle, and Gordian I committed suicide. All coins were struck in Rome.