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Herennius Etruscus

Quintus Herennius Etruscus Messius Decius, born in 227 was the son of Decius and the older brother of Hostilian. 

In 248, Herennius accompanied his father when Decius was sent to quell the revolt in the Danube frontier. When Decius was declared emperor by the troops and marched on to Rome, Herennius was declared heir to the throne.

At the beginning of 251 Decius elevated his son to the position of co-emperor and decided it was necessary to slay King Cniva of the Goths as punishment for the Goths invasion and frequent raids. They set out on an expedition leaving Herennius’ younger brother Hostilian in Rome.

When confronted with the Goth army, the Romans realised that their tactics weren’t enough to defend themselves against the Goths, Herennius died in battle when struck with an arrow.

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