Jovian was born in A.D. 330, the son of the cadet corps commander. At age 33, Jovian became its commander. When Emperor Julian was killed in battle against Persian King Shapur I in A.D. 363, the army proclaimed Jovian emperor. To ensure a safe retreat, Jovian agreed to give up provinces in Persia, and headed for Constantinople. When he reached Roman territory, he announced the empire's return to Christianity. Shortly thereafter, he was found dead in bed, apparently from suffocation.