Diocletian comprehended that the primary challenge of ruling a region such as the Roman Empire was the massive size. The territory was too big to be controlled by one leader. Hence, he divided the region into four parts and remained the overall ruler. This paper examines the changes that Diocletian pioneered and their effectiveness. The tetrarchy ensured the borders of the Roman Empire were secure and purged of all threats. Diocletian also instituted several changes to solve challenges that emerged in the previous empires. First, he remedied the age-old challenge of succession by ensuring that the tetrarchy provided suitable leaders who could take over the entire Roman Empire upon the death of the ruler.
Diocletian separated and reorganized the large military and civil services in the Roman Empire into provincial segments establishing the most bureaucratic administration in the history of the region. The tetrarchy also permitted the development of new government centers in the four areas. The new organizational structure was useful and successful for as long as it lasted. For example, the bureaucratic division of the entire empire and constant campaigning enhanced the Roman State’s infrastructure. The tetrarchy also necessitated tax reforms to make sure that they were standardized and equitable.
Additionally, the tetrarchy secured the borders of the Roman Empire by smashing revolts from the Gaul and British consequentially maintaining peace in the region. It was difficult in the past to command the Roman troops on one front. The tetrarchy ensured that the subordinate emperors were near the crisis areas at all times. The division of power allowed Diocletian to focus on other projects such as domestic affairs, resurrecting the traditional Roman religion, and the welfare of his people. He took a firm stand against Christianity often arresting and persecuting the clergy. Diocletian also expected the leaders of the provinces to report to him so that he can maintain unity in the Roman Empire.
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