At the beginning of his rein, Alexander took the name of Severus to associate himself with the deceased emperor of that name and thus gain more popular support. Like Elagabalus, Alexander was only 14 when he took power and he was also under the control of outside influences during the beginning of his reign. With the aid of his ministers, Alexander induced some thoughtful reforms in education, law and administration. However due to two badly handled wars, Alexander lost the support of the army and was ultimately killed. Around 226, Artaxerxes or Ardashir finally overthrew the last Parthian king and started a policy of continuos aggression upon Rome. Although the Persians were ultimately checked in their attack, Alexander suffered a major defeat during a botched counter offensive. The situation became fatal when Alexander tried to negotiate with German tribes who were attacking from the west. The Rhine legions were shamed and consequently a soldier named Maximinus killed Alexander, proclaiming himself the new emperor.