Definition: Carus (Marcus Numerius Carus) was made emperor in 282, before Probus died. His date and place of birth are unknown, but DIR's William Leadbetter says that most sources think he was born in Narbo and was probably born around 230. Carus was Praetorian Prefect in 282, under Emperor Probus. Carus may have revolted against Probus or he may have been proclaimed emperor by his troops when Probus was murdered. Upon becoming emperor he made his oldest son, Carinus, Caesar. When in the following year he led a campaign against Persia, he made Carinus co-emperor and named his younger son, Numerian, Caesar. Numerian accompanied Carus to Persia, where Carus' successful campaign earned him the title of Persicus Maximus. Carus died suddenly in the summer of 283, probably of natural causes. Carus was succeeded by both his sons.
Sources: DIR - Carus
Also Known As: Marcus Aurelius Carus
