Gordian I

Gordian I (c. 158–238) was a Roman senator who governed Roman Britain in 216 and later became consul under Elagabalus, popular for the lavish games he held as aedile.

He was serving as proconsul of Africa when a revolt against Maximinus Thrax broke out early in 238. Proclaimed emperor at about eighty, he ruled jointly with his son Gordian II. Within weeks Capellianus of Numidia marched on Carthage and killed Gordian II in battle, and Gordian I took his own life after a reign of just twenty-two days.