Maximus, Magnus Clemens, d. 388, Roman emperor of the West (383–388). After his followers murdered Gratian, he was recognized as ruler of Britain, Gaul, and Spain by Theodosius I. He invaded Italy in 387, expelling Valentinian II, but the following year he was defeated and put to death by Theodosius. In the reign of Maximus the heresy of Priscillian was suppressed.
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