303 - Definition and Overview

Events

• Diocletian launched the last major persecution of Christians in the Roman Empire; Hierocles was said to have been the instigator of the fierce persecution of the Christians under Galerius.
• February 24 - Galerius, Roman Emperor, publishes his edict that begins the persecution of Christians in his portion of the Empire.
• Sassanid Shah Hormizd II succeeded Narseh.

Births

Deaths

• April 23 - Saint George, soldier of the Roman Empire and later Christian martyr.
• Adrian of Nicomedia, Christian saint (or 304)
• Cao Huan, last emperor of the Kingdom of Wei
• Expeditus, Roman commander and martyr