A marble bust showing the Roman emperor Philip the Arab – reigning in the years 244-249 CE. <\/p>\n
In February 244 CE the Roman army<\/a> waged ineffective hostilities against Persia on its territory. Unexpectedly, Emperor Gordian III<\/a> also died at that time. In the face of a difficult situation, it was necessary to choose a new ruler as soon as possible. The imperial insignia agreed to be taken over by one of the most important Roman commanders – Philip the Arab.<\/p>\n Being in a dangerous situation, Philip decided to establish a quick and unfavourable peace in order to save and lead the army out of the hostile territory. During his reign, the millennium of Rome<\/a> was celebrated, and he himself was considered favourable to Christians, which suggested that he could even accept faith.<\/p>\n