A Dictionary of Greek and Roman biography and mythology

who assumed the title of EMPEROR OF ROME in A. D. 311, was, according to some accounts, a Phrygian, and according to others a Pannonian. He was appointed by Maxentius governor of Africa, but discovering that Maxentius was plotting against his life, he assumed the purple, though he was of an advanced age and a timid nature. Maxentius sent some troops against him under Rufius Volusianus, who put down the insurrection without difficulty. Alexander was taken and strangled. (Zosimus, 2.12, 14; Aur. Vict. de Caes. 40, Epit. 40.) There are a few medals of Alexander. In the one annexed we find the words IMP. ALEXANDER. AUG., P. F.; the reverse represents Victory, with this inscription, VICTORIA ALEXANDRI AUG. N., and at the bottom, P. K.