Maxentius vs Setnakhte

Maxentius was proclaimed emperor in Rome by the Praetorian Guard and the Roman populace, who resented the tax policies of Galerius. He initially ruled as a usurper but later claimed the title Augustus. His reign was centered in Italy and Africa, challenging the Tetrarchic system.

Maxentius allied with his father Maximian, who had come out of retirement to support him. Maximian married his daughter Fausta to Constantine to secure an alliance, but the alliance was short-lived. Maximian later betrayed Maxentius by attempting to usurp his throne.

Maxentius began construction of the Basilica Nova in the Roman Forum, a massive civic building with a vaulted ceiling. The basilica was completed by Constantine after Maxentius's death. It remains one of the largest ancient Roman structures and a symbol of Maxentius's building program.

Maxentius led his forces against Constantine at the Milvian Bridge near Rome. His army was defeated, and Maxentius drowned in the Tiber while attempting to retreat. The battle marked Constantine's rise as sole ruler of the West and was later associated with Constantine's conversion to Christianity.

Setnakhte seized power after the chaotic end of Dynasty XIX, likely through military force. He established himself as the first pharaoh of the 20th Dynasty. His reign brought stability after the civil wars and usurpations that had plagued Egypt under Twosret and Siptah.

Setnakhte undertook efforts to restore central authority and repair damage from the preceding period. He ordered the restoration of temples and the reassertion of royal control over the priesthood. His reign was short but provided a foundation for his son Ramesses III.

Setnakhte appropriated the tomb of Twosret (KV14) in the Valley of the Kings for his own burial. He enlarged and redecorated it, erasing her name and replacing it with his own. This act symbolized the rejection of the previous dynasty and the consolidation of his rule.