Maximus Decimus Meridius was the commander of the Armies of the North and the Felix Legions under the Roman Empire. The greatest general of Rome during the 2nd century AD, he served loyally under Emperor Marcus Aurelius during his campaign against the Germanic tribes at Vindobona (Vienna, Austria). Marcus Aurelius wanted him to succeed him and make Rome a republic again, but Marcus was murdered by his son Commodus, who attempted to have him executed. Maximus escaped, but was later enslaved and became a gladiator.