Majorian, born between 420-426 into a lower aristocrat family, rose through military ranks due to his and his family's close connections with powerful Roman figures. A capable leader and tactician, he was considered for marriage to Emperor Valentinian III's daughter to secure succession. However, Aetius, another powerful general, opposed this, leading to Majorian's temporary retirement. Re-entering public life in 454 after Aetius' death, Majorian eventually became a key figure, demonstrating that Rome's decline was not irreversible.