Gordian II

Gordian II (c. 192–238), the only known son of Gordian I, briefly ruled with his father during the Year of the Six Emperors. He accompanied his father, proconsular governor of Africa, as his legate.

In March 238 a provincial revolt against the exactions of Maximinus Thrax brought father and son to the throne, and the Senate recognized them. Gordian II led untrained militia against Capelianus, governor of neighboring Numidia, and was defeated and killed outside Carthage. His reign of about twenty-two days was the shortest recorded of any Roman emperor; his father committed suicide shortly after.