In 305, Diocletian and Maximian abdicated, and the former "caesares" Constantius and Galerius became Augusti. Although two sons of emperors—Constantine and Maxentius—were available, they were passed over for the new tetrarchy, and Severus and Maximinus Daia were appointed Caesars. Lactantius' "Epitome" states that Galerius hated Maxentius and used his influence with Diocletian to see that Maxentius was ignored in the succession; perhaps Diocletian also thought Maxentius was not qualified for the military duties of the imperial office. Maxentius retired to an estate some miles from Rome.