Majorian (Julius Maiorianus) [key], d.461, Roman emperor of the West (457–61). He became emperor after he and Ricimer had deposed Avitus. An able and honest ruler, Majorian enacted laws to protect the people from unfair taxation and to preserve the ancient monuments of Rome. He attempted to recover the provinces but was defeated (460) in his expedition against Gaiseric. Ricimer, jealous of Majorian's strength, deposed him and had him murdered. Majorian's death was the beginning of the disintegration of the West Roman Empire.
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