Philip the Arab (Marcus Julius Philippus Augustus)
33rd Emperor of the Roman Empire
Years: 204 - 249
Philip the Arab (Latin: Marcus Julius Philippus Augustus; c. 204 – 249), also known as Philip or Philippus Arabs, is Roman Emperor from 244 to 249.
He comes from Syria, and rises to become a major figure in the Roman Empire.
He achieves power after the death of Gordian III, quickly negotiating peace with the Sassanid Empire.
During his reign, Rome celebrates its millennium.
Among early Christian writers, Philip had the reputation of being sympathetic to the Christian faith.
It was even claimed that he converted to Christianity, becoming the first Christian emperor, but this is disputed.
He supposedly tried to celebrate Easter with Christians in Antioch, but the bishop Babylas made him stand with the penitents.
Philip and his wife received letters from Origen.
Philip is overthrown and killed following a rebellion led by his successor Decius.
