Definition: Aurelian (Lucius Domitius Aurelianus), was Roman emperor from A.D. 270-275. Aurelian was an Illyrian and one of the soldier emperors. Aurelian defeated the Vandals when they invaded Pannonia and defeated the Iuthungi when they invaded Italy. Aurelian put down a revolt of Roman mint workers, reformed the coinage and grain supply. Aurelian recovered Egypt, Asian territories and besieged and eventually sacked Palmyra. He recovered Gaul in 274. The next year, while on campaign, Valerian was murdered by his generals.
Source: Diana Bowder's Who's Who in the Roman World
