Directory

240 CE

Prince Shapur I becomes co-ruler of the Sasanian Empire with his father King Ardashir I. Maharaja Sri-Gupta becomes ruler of the Gupta Empire (approximate date). Mani, a young mystic of Ctesiphon, proclaims himself a prophet at the court of Ardashir I. He preaches his doctrine, Manichaeism, throughout the Sassanid Empire.

Geopolitics & Diplomacy

  • Maharaja Sri-Gupta becomes ruler of the Gupta Empire (approximate date).source

Conflict & Security

  • The Roman Empire is threatened on several fronts at the same time. Africa revolts and tribes in northwest Germania, under the name of the Franks, are raiding the Rhine frontier.source
  • Siege of Hatra: The Sasanians besiege the capital of the Kingdom of Hatra ruled by Sanatruq II.source

Religion & Belief

  • Mani, a young mystic of Ctesiphon, proclaims himself a prophet at the court of Ardashir I. He preaches his doctrine, Manichaeism, throughout the Sassanid Empire.source

Culture & Society

  • April 12 – Prince Shapur I becomes co-ruler of the Sasanian Empire with his father King Ardashir I.source

Births

  • Zenobia, queen of the Palmyrene Empire (d. 274)source
  • Lucian of Antioch, Syrian theologian and martyr (d. 312)source
  • Sporus of Nicaea, Greek mathematician (approximate date)source

Deaths

  • Herodian of Antioch, Roman historian and writer (b. 170)source
  • Huang Quan (or Gongheng), Chinese generalsource
  • Ammonius Saccas, Neoplatonic philosopher (approximate date)source