In 268 AD, the Roman Empire was experiencing significant turmoil, marked by political instability and military challenges. This period was part of the Crisis of the Third Century, a time when the empire faced numerous threats, including invasions from Germanic tribes and internal power struggles among various claimants to the throne. During this year, the Roman Emperor Gallienus was in power, having ruled since 253 AD. His reign was characterized by efforts to stabilize the empire, but he faced constant threats from rival emperors and external enemies. The year also saw the emergence of the Palmyrene Empire, led by Queen Zenobia, which posed a significant challenge to Roman authority.