Domitian
Roman emperor
Bust of Domitian, Capitoline Museum, Rome
Reign	14 September, 81 AD – 18 September, 96 AD
Full name	Titus Flavius Domitianus
Born	24 October 51 (51-10-24)
Birthplace	Rome
Died	18 September 96 (aged 44)
Place of death	Rome
Buried	Rome
Predecessor	Titus
Successor	Nerva
Wife	Domitia Longina (70–96)
Issue	One son, died young
Dynasty	Flavian
Father	Vespasian
Mother	Domitilla

Titus Flavius Domitianus (24 October 51 – 18 September 96), commonly known as Domitian, was a Roman Emperor who reigned from 14 September 81 until his death on 18 September 96. The Roman Emperor was the ruler of the Roman State during the imperial period (starting at about 27 BC Events 81 - Domitian becomes Emperor of the Roman Empire upon the death of his brother Titus. Year 81 was a Common year starting on Monday (link will display the full calendar of the Julian calendar. Events 96 - Nerva is proclaimed Roman Emperor after Domitian is assassinated Year 96 was a Leap year starting on Friday (link will display the full calendar of the Julian calendar. Events 69 - Second Battle of Bedriacum, forces under Antonius Primus the commander of the Danube armies loyal to Vespasian, defeat Year 51 was a Common year starting on Friday (link will display the full calendar of the Julian calendar. Rome ( Roma ˈroma Roma is the capital city of Italy and Lazio, and is Italy's largest and most populous city with more than 2 Events 96 - Nerva is proclaimed Roman Emperor after Domitian is assassinated Year 96 was a Leap year starting on Friday (link will display the full calendar of the Julian calendar. Titus Flavius Vespasianus, commonly known as Titus ( December 30 39 &ndash September 13 81) was a Roman Emperor who Marcus Cocceius Nerva was also the name of a Roman emperor NERVA is an acronym for Nuclear Engine for Rocket Domitia Longina (c 53 &ndash c 130 was an Empress and wife to the Roman Emperor Domitian. The Flavian dynasty was a Roman imperial Dynasty, which ruled the Roman Empire between 69 and 96 AD encompassing the reigns of Vespasian (69&ndash79 Titus Flavius Vespasianus, commonly known as Vespasian ( November 17 9 &ndash June 23 79) was a Roman Emperor who Flavia Domitilla Major ( Major, Latin for the elder) Flavia Domitilla the Elder or Domitilla the Elder (died before 69 was the wife of the Roman Events 69 - Second Battle of Bedriacum, forces under Antonius Primus the commander of the Danube armies loyal to Vespasian, defeat Year 51 was a Common year starting on Friday (link will display the full calendar of the Julian calendar. Events 96 - Nerva is proclaimed Roman Emperor after Domitian is assassinated Year 96 was a Leap year starting on Friday (link will display the full calendar of the Julian calendar. The Roman Emperor was the ruler of the Roman State during the imperial period (starting at about 27 BC Events 81 - Domitian becomes Emperor of the Roman Empire upon the death of his brother Titus. Year 81 was a Common year starting on Monday (link will display the full calendar of the Julian calendar. Domitian was the last emperor of the Flavian dynasty, which ruled the Roman Empire between 69 and 96, encompassing the reigns of Domitian's father Vespasian (69–79), his elder brother Titus (79–81), and finally Domitian's own. The Flavian dynasty was a Roman imperial Dynasty, which ruled the Roman Empire between 69 and 96 AD encompassing the reigns of Vespasian (69&ndash79 The Roman Empire was the post-Republican phase of the ancient Roman civilization, characterised by an autocratic form of government and large territorial 69 (sex position & book by Ryu Murakami are -- already linked by "" with other meanings Titus Flavius Vespasianus, commonly known as Vespasian ( November 17 9 &ndash June 23 79) was a Roman Emperor who 69 (sex position & book by Ryu Murakami are -- already linked by "" with other meanings Year 79 was a Common year starting on Friday (link will display the full calendar of the Julian calendar. Titus Flavius Vespasianus, commonly known as Titus ( December 30 39 &ndash September 13 81) was a Roman Emperor who Year 79 was a Common year starting on Friday (link will display the full calendar of the Julian calendar. Year 81 was a Common year starting on Monday (link will display the full calendar of the Julian calendar.

Domitian spent much of his youth and early career in the shadow of his brother Titus, who gained military renown during campaigns in Germania and Judaea in the 60s. Germania was the Latin Exonym for Kingdom of Judea redirects here For the 10th-6th century BCE kingdom see Kingdom of Judah Iudaea ( Hebrew: יהודה Standard Note Sometimes the ' 60s is used as shorthand for the 1960s, the 1860s, or other such decades in various centuries Events and This situation continued under the rule of Vespasian, who became emperor on 21 December 69, following a year of civil war known as the Year of the Four Emperors. Events 69 - The end of the Year of the four emperors: Following Galba, Otho and Vitellius, Vespasian A civil war is a War between a State and domestic political actors that are in control of some part of the territory claimed by the state The Year of the Four Emperors was a year in the history of the Roman Empire, AD 69 in which four emperors ruled in a remarkable succession While his elder brother shared almost equal powers in the government of his father, Domitian was left with honours but no responsibilities. Vespasian died on 23 June 79 and was succeeded by Titus, whose brief reign came to an unexpected end on 13 September 81. Events 1180 - First Battle of Uji, starting the Genpei War in Japan 1305 - The Flemish Year 79 was a Common year starting on Friday (link will display the full calendar of the Julian calendar. Events 509 BC - The Temple of Jupiter on Rome 's Capitoline Hill is dedicated on the ides of September Year 81 was a Common year starting on Monday (link will display the full calendar of the Julian calendar. The following day, Domitian was declared emperor by the Praetorian Guard, and began a reign which lasted more than fifteen years—longer than any man who had governed Rome since Tiberius. The Praetorian Guard ( Latin: PRÆTORIANI was a special force of Guards used by Roman Emperors Before being appropriated Tiberius Julius Caesar Augustus (or Tiberius I) born Tiberius Claudius Nero (November 16 42 BC – March 16 AD 37) was the second Roman

Traditional views hold that Domitian was a cruel and paranoid tyrant. Among ancient authors, he ranks among the most reviled rulers in Roman history, earning comparison to such emperors as Caligula and Nero. Gaius Julius Caesar Augustus Germanicus (August 31 AD 12 &ndash January 24 AD 41 more commonly known by his nickname Caligula (kəˈlɪɡjʊlə was a Roman Emperor Nero Claudius Caesar Augustus Germanicus ( December 15, 37 – June 9, 68) born Lucius Domitius Ahenobarbus, also called Many of these views however, were propagated by hostile contemporary authors such as Tacitus, Pliny the Younger and Suetonius, a small but highly vocal minority who exaggerated Domitian's harshness, in favour of the highly regarded Five Good Emperors who followed. Publius (or Gaius) Cornelius Tacitus (ca 56 &ndash ca 117 was a senator and a Historian of the Roman Empire. Gaius Plinius Caecilius Secundus, born Gaius Caecilius or Gaius Caecilius Cilo (61/63 - ca Gaius Suetonius Tranquillus, commonly known as Suetonius (ca 69/75 &ndash after 130 was an equestrian and a historian during the Roman Empire. The Five Good Emperors is a term that refers to five consecutive emperors of the Roman Empire who represented a line of virtuous and just rule — Nerva, Trajan Modern history has rejected these views,^[1] instead characterizing Domitian as a ruthless but efficient autocrat, whose cultural, economic and political programme was a precursor to the peaceful 2nd century, rather than the twilight of the tumultuous 1st century. The 2nd century is the period from 101 to 200 in accordance with the Julian calendar in the Christian / Common Era. The 1st century was the Century that lasted from 1 to 100 according the Julian calendar.

Early life

Family

Domitian was born in Rome on 24 October 51, as the youngest son of Titus Flavius Vespasianus—commonly known as Vespasian—and Flavia Domitilla Maior. The Flavian dynasty was a Roman imperial Dynasty, which ruled the Roman Empire between 69 and 96 AD encompassing the reigns of Vespasian (69&ndash79 Titus Flavius Vespasianus, commonly known as Vespasian ( November 17 9 &ndash June 23 79) was a Roman Emperor who Titus Flavius Vespasianus, commonly known as Titus ( December 30 39 &ndash September 13 81) was a Roman Emperor who Flavia Domitilla the Younger or Flavia Domitilla Minor (c 45 &ndash c Titus Flavius Vespasianus, commonly known as Titus ( December 30 39 &ndash September 13 81) was a Roman Emperor who See other meanings of Flavia. Flavia Julia Titi ( 17 September 64 – 91 was daughter and only child to the Emperor Titus Rome ( Roma ˈroma Roma is the capital city of Italy and Lazio, and is Italy's largest and most populous city with more than 2 Events 69 - Second Battle of Bedriacum, forces under Antonius Primus the commander of the Danube armies loyal to Vespasian, defeat Year 51 was a Common year starting on Friday (link will display the full calendar of the Julian calendar. Titus Flavius Vespasianus, commonly known as Vespasian ( November 17 9 &ndash June 23 79) was a Roman Emperor who Flavia Domitilla Major ( Major, Latin for the elder) Flavia Domitilla the Elder or Domitilla the Elder (died before 69 was the wife of the Roman ^[2] He had one older sister, Domitilla the Younger (b. Flavia Domitilla the Younger or Flavia Domitilla Minor (c 45 &ndash c 39), and one older brother, also named Titus Flavius Vespasianus (b. 39), but commonly referred to as Titus. Titus Flavius Vespasianus, commonly known as Titus ( December 30 39 &ndash September 13 81) was a Roman Emperor who

Decades of civil war during the 1st century BC had contributed greatly to the demise of the old artistocracy of Rome, which was gradually replaced in prominence by a new Italian nobility during the early part of the 1st century AD. The 1st century BC started the first day of 100 BC and ended the last day of 1 BC. The 1st century was the Century that lasted from 1 to 100 according the Julian calendar. ^[3] One such family was the gens Flavia, which rose from relative obscurity to prominence in just four generations, acquiring wealth and status under the emperors of the Julio-Claudian dynasty. Flavius was the name of a Gens in Ancient Rome, meaning "blond" The Julio-Claudian Dynasty refers to the first five Roman Emperors: Augustus (Octavian Tiberius, Caligula (Gaius Claudius, and Domitian's great-grandfather, Titus Flavius Petro, had served as a centurion under Pompey during Caesar's civil war. Titus Flavius Petro (flourished 1st century BC) was the paternal grandfather of the Roman Emperor Vespasian. Centurion redirects here This article is about the Roman soldier Gnaeus Pompeius Magnus, commonly known as Pompey /'pɑmpi/ Pompey the Great or Pompey the Triumvir ( Classical Latin abbreviation The Roman civil war of 49 BC sometimes called Caesar's Civil War, is one of the last conflicts within the Roman Republic. His military career ended in disgrace when he fled the battlefield at the Battle of Pharsalus in 48 BC. The Battle of Pharsalus was a decisive battle of Caesar's Civil War. Year 48 BC was a year of the pre-Julian calendar. Events By place Rome Consuls Gaius Julius Caesar, ^[2] Nevertheless, Petro managed to improve his status by marrying the extremely wealthy Tertulla, whose fortune guaranteed the upwards mobility of Petro's son Titus Flavius Sabinus I, Domitian's grandfather. See also Titus Flavius Sabinus for other men of this name Titus Flavius Sabinus, (lived 1st century BC to 1st century) was the son of ^[4] Sabinus himself amassed further wealth and possible equestrian status through his services as tax collector in Asia and banker in Helvetia. A tax collector is a person who collects unpaid Taxes from other people or corporations Helvetia is the Roman name for an ancient region of central Europe occupying a plateau between the Alps and the Jura Mountains. By marrying Vespasia Polla he allied himself to the more prestigious patrician gens Vespasia, ensuring the elevation of his sons Titus Flavius Sabinus II and Vespasian to the senatorial rank. Vespasia Polla (also known as Vespasia Pollio, flourished 1st century) was the mother of the Roman Emperor Vespasian, grandmother to Emperors The term " patrician " originally referred to a group of elite families in Ancient Rome, including both their natural and See also Titus Flavius Sabinus for other men of this name Titus Flavius Sabinus was the elder son of Titus Flavius Sabinus and Vespasia Polla Titus Flavius Vespasianus, commonly known as Vespasian ( November 17 9 &ndash June 23 79) was a Roman Emperor who The Roman Senate was a political institution in Ancient Rome. ^[4]

Flavian family tree, indicating the descendants of Titus Flavius Petro and Tertulla. The Flavian dynasty was a Roman imperial Dynasty, which ruled the Roman Empire between 69 and 96 AD encompassing the reigns of Vespasian (69&ndash79 Titus Flavius Petro (flourished 1st century BC) was the paternal grandfather of the Roman Emperor Vespasian.

The political career of Vespasian included the offices of quaestor, aedile and praetor, and culminated with a consulship in 51, the year Domitian was born. The cursus honorum ( Latin: "course of honors" or "honors race" was the sequential order of Public offices held by aspiring Quaestors were originally appointed by the Consuls to investigate criminal acts and determine if the consul needed to take public action Aedile ( Aedilis, from aedes aedis "temple" "building" was an office of the Roman Republic. Praetor was a title granted by the government of Ancient Rome to men acting in one of two official capacities the commander of an Army, either before Consul (abbrev cos; Latin plural consules) was the highest elected Political office of the Roman Republic and the Empire. Year 51 was a Common year starting on Friday (link will display the full calendar of the Julian calendar. As a military commander, he gained early renown by participating in the Roman invasion of Britain in 43. This page refers to the conquest begun in AD 43 For other Roman invasions see Caesar's invasions of Britain and Carausian Revolt. Year 43 was a Common year starting on Tuesday (link will display the full calendar of the Julian calendar. ^[5] Nevertheless, ancient sources allege poverty for the Flavian family at the time of Domitian's upbringing,^[6] even claiming Vespasian had fallen into disrepute under the emperors Caligula (37–41) and Nero (54–68). Poverty (also called penury) is deprivation of common necessities that determine the quality of life including food clothing shelter and safe Drinking water, and Gaius Julius Caesar Augustus Germanicus (August 31 AD 12 &ndash January 24 AD 41 more commonly known by his nickname Caligula (kəˈlɪɡjʊlə was a Roman Emperor Year 37 was a Common year starting on Tuesday (link will display the full calendar of the Julian calendar. Year 41 was a Common year starting on Sunday (link will display the full calendar of the Julian calendar. Nero Claudius Caesar Augustus Germanicus ( December 15, 37 – June 9, 68) born Lucius Domitius Ahenobarbus, also called Year 54 was a Common year starting on Tuesday (link will display the full calendar of the Julian calendar. Year 68 was a Leap year starting on Friday (link will display the full calendar of the Julian calendar. ^[7] Modern history however, suggests these stories were merely part of a propaganda campaign, later instigated under Flavian rule, to diminish early successes under the less reputable emperors of the Julio-Claudian dynasty, and maximize achievements under Claudius (41–54) and his son Britannicus. Propaganda is a concerted set of messages aimed at influencing the opinions or behaviors of large numbers of people Year 41 was a Common year starting on Sunday (link will display the full calendar of the Julian calendar. Year 54 was a Common year starting on Tuesday (link will display the full calendar of the Julian calendar. ^[8] By all appearances, imperial favour for the Flavians was high throughout the 40s and 60s. While Titus received a court education in the company of Britannicus, Vespasian pursued a successful political and military career. For the 1669 Tragedy by French Dramatist Jean Racine, see Britannicus (play. Following a prolonged period of retirement during the 50s, he returned to public office in 63 under Nero, serving as proconsul of the Africa province, and accompanying the emperor during an official tour of Greece in 66. Year 63 was a Common year starting on Saturday (link will display the full calendar of the Julian calendar. Ancient Rome In the Roman Republic, a proconsul was a Promagistrate (like a Propraetor) who after serving as Consul, spent a year The Roman province of Africa was established after the Romans defeated Carthage in the Third Punic War. Greece (Ελλάδα transliterated: Elláda, historically, Ellás,) officially the Hellenic Republic (Ελληνική Δημοκρατία Year 66 was a Common year starting on Wednesday (link will display the full calendar of the Julian calendar. ^[9] The same year, the Jews of the Judaea province revolted, and Nero appointed Vespasian to lead the Roman army in the war against the insurgents. Kingdom of Judea redirects here For the 10th-6th century BCE kingdom see Kingdom of Judah Iudaea ( Hebrew: יהודה Standard The Roman army was a set of military forces employed by the Roman Kingdom, Roman Republic and later Roman Empire as part of the Roman military ^[10] In this campaign he was joined by Titus, who had completed his military education by this time and personally commanded one of Vespasian's three legions. ^[11]

Youth and character

Bust of Vespasian from the Pushkin Museum, Moscow. The Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts (Russian Музей изобразительных искусств им Moscow (Москва́ romanised: Moskvá, IPA: see also other names) is the Capital and the largest city of When Domitian was fifteen, his father was assigned to command the Roman army against the Jewish revolt.

By 66, Domitian's mother and sister had long died, while his father and brother were continuously active in the Roman military, commanding armies in Germania and Judaea. Germania was the Latin Exonym for This meant that a significant part of his adolescence was spent in the absence of his near relatives. During the Jewish-Roman wars, Domitian was likely taken under the care of his uncle Titus Flavius Sabinus II, at the time serving as city prefect of Rome; or possibly even Marcus Cocceius Nerva, a loyal friend of the Flavians and the future successor to Domitian. Marcus Cocceius Nerva was also the name of a Roman emperor NERVA is an acronym for Nuclear Engine for Rocket ^[10][12] He received the education of a young man of the privileged senatorial class, studying rhetoric and literature. Rhetoric has had many definitions no simple definition can do it justice Literature is the Art of written works Literally translated the word means "acquaintance with letters" (from Latin littera letter In his biography in the Lives of the Twelve Caesars, Suetonius attests to Domitian's ability to quote the important poets and writers such as Homer or Virgil on appropriate occasions,^[13][14] and describes him as a learned and educated adolescent, with elegant conversation. Gaius Suetonius Tranquillus, commonly known as Suetonius (ca 69/75 &ndash after 130 was an equestrian and a historian during the Roman Empire. Homer ( Ancient Greek:, Homēros) is a legendary ancient Greek epic Poet, traditionally said to be the author of the epic poems the Publius Vergilius Maro ( October 15, 70 BCE &ndash September 21, 19 BCE later called Virgilius, and known in English as Virgil or ^[15] Among his first published works were poetry, as well as writings on law and administration. Law is a system of rules enforced through a set of Institutions used as an instrument to underpin civil obedience politics economics and society ^[10] Unlike his brother Titus however, Domitian was not educated at court. Whether he received a formal military training is not recorded, but according to Suetonius, he displayed considerable marksmanship with the bow and arrow. Archery is the practice of using a bow or Crossbow to shoot Arrows Archery has historically been used in Hunting and Combat and has ^[16][17]

A detailed description of Domitian's appearance and character is provided by Suetonius, who devotes a substantial part of his biography to his personality.

Domitian was allegedly extremely sensitive of his baldness, which he disguised in later life by wearing wigs. Baldness involves the state of lacking hair where it often grows especially on the head A wig is a head of Hair made from horse-hair human hair wool feathers buffalo hair or synthetic worn on the head for fashion or various other aesthetic and stylistic ^[19] According to Suetonius, he even wrote a book on the subject of hair care. Hair care is an overall term for parts of Hygiene and Cosmetology involving the Hair on the human head ^[18] With respect to Domitian's personality however, the account of Suetonius alternates sharply between that of Domitian-the-tyrant, as a man both physically and intellectually lazy, and the intelligent, refined personality drawn elsewhere. ^[20] Brian Jones concludes in The Emperor Domitian, that assessing the true nature of Domitian's personality is inherently complicated by the bias of the surviving sources. ^[20] He apparently lacked the natural charisma of his brother and father. He was prone to suspicion, displayed an odd, sometimes self-deprecating sense of humour,^[21][22] and often communicated in cryptic ways. Self-deprecation is a form of Humor in which people or Comedians make jokes about themselves their shortcomings or their culture usually without This ambiguity of character was further exacerbated by his remoteness, and as he grew older, he increasingly displayed a preference for solitude, perhaps stemming from his isolated upbringing. ^[10] Indeed by the age of eighteen, nearly all of his closest relatives had died by war or disease. Having spent the larger part of his early life in the twilight of Nero's reign, his formative years would have been strongly influenced by the political turmoil of the 60s, culminating with the civil war of 69, which brought his family to power. A civil war is a War between a State and domestic political actors that are in control of some part of the territory claimed by the state

Rise of the Flavian dynasty

Year of the Four Emperors

Map of the Roman Empire during the Year of the Four Emperors (69 AD). The Year of the Four Emperors was a year in the history of the Roman Empire, AD 69 in which four emperors ruled in a remarkable succession Blue areas indicate provinces loyal to Vespasian and Gaius Licinius Mucianus. Gaius Licinius Mucianus (fl 1st century AD was a general statesman and writer of Ancient Rome.

On June 9, 68, amidst growing opposition of the Senate and the army, Nero committed suicide, and with him the Julio-Claudian dynasty came to an end. Events 53 - Roman Emperor Nero marries Claudia Octavia 62 - Claudia Octavia commits Year 68 was a Leap year starting on Friday (link will display the full calendar of the Julian calendar. The Roman Senate was a political institution in Ancient Rome. Chaos ensued, leading to a year of brutal civil war known as the Year of the Four Emperors, during which the four most influential generals in the Roman Empire—Galba, Otho, Vitellius and Vespasian—successively vied for the imperial power. The Year of the Four Emperors was a year in the history of the Roman Empire, AD 69 in which four emperors ruled in a remarkable succession The Roman Empire was the post-Republican phase of the ancient Roman civilization, characterised by an autocratic form of government and large territorial Servius Sulpicius Galba ( December 24, 3 BC &ndash January 15, 69) also called Servius Sulpicius Galba Caesar For other uses see Otho (disambiguation. Marcus Salvius Otho ( April 25, 32 – April 16, 69) also called Marcus Aulus Vitellius Germanicus, born Aulus Vitellius and commonly known as Vitellius ( 24 September, 15 &ndash 22 December, 69 Titus Flavius Vespasianus, commonly known as Vespasian ( November 17 9 &ndash June 23 79) was a Roman Emperor who News of Nero's death reached Vespasian as he was preparing to besiege the city of Jerusalem. Jerusalem (יְרוּשָׁלַיִם, he-Latn Yerushaláyim; Arabic: ar القُدس, ar-Latn al-Quds) is the Almost simultaneously, the Senate had declared Galba, then governor of Hispania Tarraconensis, as emperor of Rome. Servius Sulpicius Galba ( December 24, 3 BC &ndash January 15, 69) also called Servius Sulpicius Galba Caesar Hispania Tarraconensis was one of three Roman provinces in Hispania. Rather than continue his campaign, Vespasian decided to await further orders and send Titus to greet the new princeps. The Latin word Princeps (plural principes) means exactly 'a prime' ^[23] Before reaching Italy however, Titus learnt that Galba had been murdered and replaced by Otho, the governor of Lusitania. For other uses see Otho (disambiguation. Marcus Salvius Otho ( April 25, 32 – April 16, 69) also called Marcus This article concerns the Roman province For the ship see RMS Lusitania. At the same time Vitellius and his armies in Germania had risen in revolt, and prepared to march on Rome, intent on overthrowing Otho. Aulus Vitellius Germanicus, born Aulus Vitellius and commonly known as Vitellius ( 24 September, 15 &ndash 22 December, 69 Germania was the Latin Exonym for Not wanting to risk being taken hostage by one side or the other, Titus abandoned the journey to Rome and rejoined his father in Judaea. ^[24]

Otho and Vitellius were only too aware of the threat posed by the Flavian faction. With four legions at his disposal, Vespasian commanded a strength of nearly 80,000 soldiers. His position in Judaea further granted him the advantage of being nearest to the vital province of Egypt, which controlled the grain supply to Rome. Ægyptus redirects here See Egypt Province for the province of the Ottoman Empire The Megalopolis of ancient Rome could never be fed entirely from its own surrounding countryside especially as this region was increasingly used to produce fruit vegetables and other His brother Titus Flavius Sabinus II, as city prefect, commanded the entire city garrison of Rome. The cohortes urbanae ( Latin meaning urban cohorts) led by the Urban prefect, of Ancient Rome were created by Augustus ^[25] Tensions among the Flavian troops were high, but so long as Galba and Otho remained in power, Vespasian refused to take action. When Otho was defeated by Vitellius at the First Battle of Bedriacum however,^[26] the armies in Judaea and Ægyptus took matters into their own hands and declared Vespasian emperor on July 1, 69. The Battle of Bedriacum refers to two battles fought during the Year of the four emperors ( 69) near the village of Bedriacum (now Calvatone "July 1st" redirects here For the Ayumi Hamasaki song see H (song. 69 (sex position & book by Ryu Murakami are -- already linked by "" with other meanings ^[27] Vespasian accepted, and through negotiations by Titus joined forces with Gaius Licinius Mucianus, governor of Syria. Gaius Licinius Mucianus (fl 1st century AD was a general statesman and writer of Ancient Rome. ^[28] A strong force drawn from the Judean and Syrian legions marched on Rome under the command of Mucianus, while Vespasian himself travelled to Alexandria, leaving Titus in charge to end the Jewish rebellion. Alexandria ( Egyptian Arabic: اسكندريه Eskendereyya; Standard Arabic: ar الإسكندرية Al-Iskandariyya; Ἀλεξάνδρεια ^[29][30]

Bust of emperor Vitellius (16th century replica) from the Louvre, Paris. Aulus Vitellius Germanicus, born Aulus Vitellius and commonly known as Vitellius ( 24 September, 15 &ndash 22 December, 69 The Louvre Museum (Musée du Louvre located in Paris is the world's most visited art museum a historic monument and a national museum of France Paris (ˈpærɨs in English; in French) is the Capital of France and the country's largest city

In Rome meanwhile, Domitian was placed under house arrest by Vitellius, as a safeguard against future Flavian aggression. In Justice and Law, house arrest (also called home confinement, home detention, or electronic monitoring) is a measure by which ^[31] Support for the old emperor was quickly wavering however, as more legions throughout the empire pledged their allegiance to Vespasian. On October 24, both sides clashed at the Second Battle of Bedriacum, which ended in a crushing defeat for the armies of Vitellius. Events 69 - Second Battle of Bedriacum, forces under Antonius Primus the commander of the Danube armies loyal to Vespasian, defeat The Battle of Bedriacum refers to two battles fought during the Year of the four emperors ( 69) near the village of Bedriacum (now Calvatone ^[32] In despair, he attempted to negotiate a surrender. Terms of peace, including a voluntary abdication, were agreed upon with Titus Flavius Sabinus II,^[33] but the soldiers of the Praetorian Guard—the imperial bodyguard—considered such a resignation disgraceful, and prevented Vitellius from carrying out the treaty. The Praetorian Guard ( Latin: PRÆTORIANI was a special force of Guards used by Roman Emperors Before being appropriated A bodyguard (or "close protection officer" is a type of Security guard or government agent who protects a person—usually a famous wealthy or politically ^[34] On the morning of December 18, the emperor appeared to deposit the imperial insignia at the Temple of Concord, but at the last minute retraced his steps to the imperial palace. Events 218 BC - Second Punic War: Battle of the Trebia - Hannibal 's Carthaginian forces defeat those of the For other temples to her see Concordia (Roman goddess#Temples. In the confusion, the leading men of the state gathered at Sabinus' house, proclaiming Vespasian emperor, but the multitude dispersed when Vitellian cohorts clashed with the armed escort of Sabinus, who was forced to retreat to the Capitoline Hill. The Capitoline Hill, between the Forum and the Campus Martius, is one of the seven hills of Rome. ^[35] During the night, he was joined by his relatives, including Domitian. The armies of Mucianus were nearing Rome, but the besieged Flavian party could not hold out for longer than a day. On December 19, Vitellianists broke down the doors of the Arx, and in the resulting skirmish, Sabinus was captured and executed. Events 324 - Licinius abdicates his position as Roman Emperor. ^[36] Domitian himself managed to escape by disguising himself as a worshipper of Isis, and spent the night in safety with one of his father's clients. Isis is a goddess in Ancient Egyptian religious beliefs and is celebrated in their mythology as the ideal mother and wife patron of nature and magic friend of slaves sinners ^[37] By the afternoon of December 20, Vitellius was dead, and his armies defeated by the Flavian legions. Events 69 - Vespasian, formerly a general under Nero, enters Rome to claim the title of Emperor. With nothing more to be feared from the enemy, Domitian came forward to meet the invading forces; he was universally saluted by the title of Caesar, and the mass of troops conducted him to his father's house. ^[38] The following day, December 21, the Senate proclaimed Vespasian emperor of the Roman Empire. Events 69 - The end of the Year of the four emperors: Following Galba, Otho and Vitellius, Vespasian ^[39]

Aftermath of the war

The Conspiracy of Gaius Julius Civilis (detail), by Rembrandt (1661). Gaius Julius Civilis was the leader of the Batavian rebellion against the Romans in 69. Rembrandt Harmenszoon van Rijn (July 15 1606 &ndash October 4 1669 was a Dutch painter and etcher. During the Batavian rebellion, Domitian eagerly sought the opportunity to attain military glory, but was denied command of a legion by superior officers. The Revolt of the Batavi took place in the Roman province of Germania Inferior (S

Although the war had officially ended, a state of anarchy and lawlessness pervaded in the first days following the demise of Vitellius. Anarchy (from αναρχία anarchía, "without ruler " may refer to any of the following "Absence of government a state of lawlessness Order was properly restored by Mucianus in early 70, but Vespasian did not return until September of that year. ^[37] In the mean time Domitian acted as the representative of the Flavian family in the Roman Senate. The Roman Senate was a political institution in Ancient Rome. In addition to receiving the title of Caesar, he was appointed praetor with consular power. Praetor was a title granted by the government of Ancient Rome to men acting in one of two official capacities the commander of an Army, either before Consul (abbrev cos; Latin plural consules) was the highest elected Political office of the Roman Republic and the Empire. ^[40] Domitian's authority was merely nominal however, foreshadowing what was to be his role for at least ten more years. By all accounts, Mucianus held the real power in Vespasian's absence, and he was careful to ensure that Domitian, still only 18 years old, did not overstep the boundaries of his function. ^[40] Tacitus describes Domitian's first speech in the Senate as brief and measured, at the same time noting his ability to elude awkward questions. Publius (or Gaius) Cornelius Tacitus (ca 56 &ndash ca 117 was a senator and a Historian of the Roman Empire. ^[41] Strict control was also maintained over the young Caesar's entourage, promoting away influential generals such as Arrius Varus, Praetorian prefect, and Antonius Primus, who had led the Flavian forces at Bedriacum, and replacing them by more reliable men such as Arrecinus Clemens. Praetorian prefect (Latin Praefectus praetorio) was the constant title of a high office in the Roman state that changed fundamentally in nature Marcus Antonius Primus ( 30 / 35 -after 81) was a Roman Empire general Marcus Arrecinus Clemens (flourished 1st Century) was a prefect of the Roman imperial Bodyguard, known as the Praetorian Guard. ^[40]

Equally curtailed by Mucianus were Domitian's military ambitions. The civil war of 69 had severely destabilized peace within the provinces, leading to several local rebellions which continued throughout 70. In Gaul, Batavian auxiliaries of the Rhine legions, led by Gaius Julius Civilis, had revolted and been joined by a faction of Treveri under command of Julius Classicus. Gaul (Gallia was the Roman name for the region of Western Europe comprising present day northern Italy, France, Belgium, western The Batavians ( Latin Batavi) were a Germanic tribe originally part of the Chatti, reported by Tacitus to The Rhine (Rhein Rijn Rhin Reno Rain Rhenus is one of the longest and most important Rivers in Europe at 1320 kilometres (820 mi with an average discharge Gaius Julius Civilis was the leader of the Batavian rebellion against the Romans in 69. The Revolt of the Batavi took place in the Roman province of Germania Inferior (S The Treveri or Treviri were a tribe of Gauls who inhabited the lower valley of the Moselle, within the southern fringes of the Arduenna Silva Seven legions were sent from Rome, led by Vespasian's brother-in-law Quintus Petillius Cerialis. Quintus Petilius Cerialis Caesius Rufus (born ca 30 was a Roman general ^[16] Although the revolt was quickly suppressed, exaggerated reports of disaster prompted Mucianus to depart the capital with reinforcements of his own. Domitian eagerly sought the opportunity to attain military glory, and joined the other officers with the intention of commanding a legion of his own. According to Tacitus, Mucianus was not keen on this prospect, but he considered Domitian a liability in whatever capacity entrusted to, and therefore preferred to keep him close at hand instead of at Rome. ^[42] When news arrived of Cerialis' victory over Civilis, Mucianus tactfully dissuaded Domitian from pursuing further military endeavours. ^[43] Domitian then wrote to Cerialis personally, suggesting to hand over command of his army, but once again, he was snubbed. ^[44] With the return of Vespasian in late September finally, his political role was rendered all but obsolete. Domitian withdrew from government and devoted his time to arts and literature. Literature is the Art of written works Literally translated the word means "acquaintance with letters" (from Latin littera letter ^[44]

Marriage

Bust of Domitian's wife, Domitia Longina. Domitia Longina (c 53 &ndash c 130 was an Empress and wife to the Roman Emperor Domitian. Note the peculiar hairstyle, typical of the Flavian period. Haircut redirects here For the financial term see Haircut (finance.

Where his political and military career had ended in disappointment, Domitian's private affairs were more prosperous in 70. Vespasian attempted to arrange a dynastic marriage between his youngest son and the daughter of Titus, Julia Flavia,^[45] but Domitian was adamant of his love for Domitia Longina, going so far as to persuade her husband, Lucius Aelius Lamia, to divorce her so that Domitian could marry her himself. See other meanings of Flavia. Flavia Julia Titi ( 17 September 64 – 91 was daughter and only child to the Emperor Titus Domitia Longina (c 53 &ndash c 130 was an Empress and wife to the Roman Emperor Domitian. Lucius Aelius Lamia was the name of two consuls during the Roman Empire Lucius Aelius Lamia (consul 3, consul in 3 AD under Emperor Augustus ^[45] Despite its initial recklesness, the alliance was very prestigious for both families. Domitia Longina was the younger daughter of Gnaeus Domitius Corbulo, a respected general and honoured politician. Gnaeus Domitius Corbulo (ca 7 - 67 was a Roman general Life Descent Corbulo was born in Italy into a senatorial family Following the failed Pisonian conspiracy against Nero in 65, he had been forced to commit suicide. The conspiracy of Gaius Calpurnius Piso in 65 represented one of the major turning points in the reign of the Roman emperor Nero (54&ndash68 Nero Claudius Caesar Augustus Germanicus ( December 15, 37 – June 9, 68) born Lucius Domitius Ahenobarbus, also called Year 65 was a Common year starting on Tuesday (link will display the full calendar of the Julian calendar. The new marriage not only re-established ties to senatorial opposition, but also served the broader Flavian propaganda of the time, which sought to diminish Vespasian's political success under Nero. Propaganda is a concerted set of messages aimed at influencing the opinions or behaviors of large numbers of people Instead connections to Claudius and Britannicus were emphasised, and Nero's victims, or those otherwise disadvantaged by him, rehabilitated. ^[46]

The marriage appears to have been happy, despite allegations by Roman sources of adultery and divorce. Adultery is the voluntary Sexual intercourse between a married person and another person who is not his or her Spouse, though in many places it is Divorce or dissolution of marriage is the termination of a Marriage. ^[47] The couple had only one child, an unnamed son, born in 73, who died sometime around 81. It is believed that, because of this, Domitian exiled his wife on grounds of infertility in 83,^[48] but soon recalled her, either out of love or amidst allegations he carried on an affair with his niece Julia Flavia. Female infertility|Male infertility Infertility primarily refers to the biological inability of a Man or a Woman to contribute to conception. ^[49] It is not known whether Domitian ever had other children, but he did not marry another woman during his lifetime.

Ceremonial heir

The Triumph of Titus, by Sir Lawrence Alma-Tadema (1885). Sir Lawrence Alma-Tadema, OM, RA ( January 8, 1836, Dronrijp, the Netherlands. This painting depicts the Flavian family during the triumphal procession of 71. Vespasian is depicted at the head of the family, dressed as pontifex maximus, followed by Domitian, clad in armour, with Domitia Longina, and finally Titus, also dressed in religious regalia. Titus Flavius Vespasianus, commonly known as Vespasian ( November 17 9 &ndash June 23 79) was a Roman Emperor who The Pontifex Maximus was the high priest of the Ancient Roman College of Pontiffs. Domitia Longina (c 53 &ndash c 130 was an Empress and wife to the Roman Emperor Domitian. Titus Flavius Vespasianus, commonly known as Titus ( December 30 39 &ndash September 13 81) was a Roman Emperor who

In June 71, Titus returned triumphant from the war in Judaea. Year 71 was a Common year starting on Tuesday (link will display the full calendar of the Julian calendar. Titus Flavius Vespasianus, commonly known as Titus ( December 30 39 &ndash September 13 81) was a Roman Emperor who Ultimately, the rebellion had claimed the lives of over 1 million people, a majority of which were Jewish. ^[50] The city and temple of Jerusalem were completely destroyed, its most valuable treasures carried off by the Roman army, and nearly 100,000 people were captured and enslaved. The Second Temple (בית המקדש romanized 'Beit HaMikdash' meaning 'Holy House' was the reconstructed Temple in Jerusalem which stood between 516 BCE and 70 CE Jerusalem (יְרוּשָׁלַיִם, he-Latn Yerushaláyim; Arabic: ar القُدس, ar-Latn al-Quds) is the ^[50] For his victory, the Senate awarded Titus a Roman triumph. A Roman triumph ( la [[wikttriumphus triumphus]], Old Latin la triumpus, attested as the exclamation la TRIVMPE in the Carmen Arvale; via On the day of the festivities, the Flavian family rode into the capital, preceded by a lavish parade which displayed the spoils of the war. ^[51] The family procession was headed by Vespasian and Titus, while Domitian, riding a magnificent white horse, followed with the remaining Flavian relatives. The horse ( Equus caballus) is a hoofed ( Ungulate) Mammal, one of eight living species of the family Equidae. ^[52] Leaders of the Jewish resistance were executed in the Forum Romanum, after which the procession closed with religious sacrifices at the Temple of Jupiter. This page refers to the main forum in the center of Rome See Imperial forums or Other forums in Rome (below for other forums in Rome and See Temple of Jupiter for temples to him in other places The Temple of Jupiter Optimus Maximus ("Jupiter greatest and best" also known ^[51] To further memorialize the successful end of the war, a triumphal arch—the Arch of Titus—was erected at the south-east entrance to the Forum. A triumphal arch is a structure in the shape of a monumental Archway, in theory built to celebrate a victory in war actually used to celebrate a ruler The Arch of Titus is a Pentelic marble Triumphal arch with a single arched opening located on the Via Sacra just to the south-east of the Forum

Yet, the return of Titus further highlighted the comparative insignificance of Domitian, both military and political. As the eldest and most experienced of Vespasian's sons, Titus shared tribunician power with his father, received seven consulships, the censorship, and was given command over the imperial bodyguard, the Praetorian guard;^[53] powers which left no doubt he was the designated heir to the Empire. Tribune (from the Latin: tribunus; Byzantine Greek form τριβούνος) was a title shared by 2–3 elected magistracies in the Consul (abbrev cos; Latin plural consules) was the highest elected Political office of the Roman Republic and the Empire. A Censor was a magistrate of high rank in the ancient Roman Republic. Praetorian prefect (Latin Praefectus praetorio) was the constant title of a high office in the Roman state that changed fundamentally in nature The Praetorian Guard ( Latin: PRÆTORIANI was a special force of Guards used by Roman Emperors Before being appropriated ^[54] As a second son, Domitian held honorary titles, such as Caesar or Princeps Iuventutis, and several priesthoods, including those of augur, pontifex, frater arvalis, magister frater arvalium, and sacerdos collegiorum omnium,^[55] but no office with imperium. The Augur was a priest and official in the classical world especially Ancient Rome and Etruria. PONTIFEX (Planning Of Non-specific Transportation by an Intelligent Fleet EXpert was a mid-1980s project that introduced a novel approach to complex aircraft fleet scheduling Arval Brethren (Latin Fratres Arvales) or Arval brothers were a body of priests in ancient Rome who offered annual Sacrifices to Lares Imperium in a broad sense translates as power. In Ancient Rome the concept applied to People, and meant something like "power He held only one ordinary consulship during Vespasian's reign, in 73, and five suffect consulships, in 71, 75, 76, 77 and 79 respectively, usually replacing his father or brother on the 13th of January. While merely ceremonial, these offices no doubt gained Domitian valuable experience in the Roman Senate, and may have contributed to his later reservations about its relevance. ^[55] Under Vespasian and Titus, non-Flavians were virtually excluded from the important public offices. Mucianus himself all but disappeared from historical records during this time, and it is believed he died sometime between 75 and 77. ^[56] Real power was unmistakenly concentrated into the hands of the Flavian faction; the Senate remained merely a facade of democracy. Democracy is a form of government in which the supreme power is held completely by the people under a free electoral system

Titus succeeded his father as emperor on June 23, 79. Titus Flavius Vespasianus, commonly known as Titus ( December 30 39 &ndash September 13 81) was a Roman Emperor who His short rule came to an end when he unexpectedly died of fever on September 13, 81.

Because Titus effectively acted as co-emperor to his father, no abrupt change in Flavian policy took place when Vespasian died on June 23, 79. Events 1180 - First Battle of Uji, starting the Genpei War in Japan 1305 - The Flemish Year 79 was a Common year starting on Friday (link will display the full calendar of the Julian calendar. ^[57] Titus assured Domitian that full partnership in the government would soon be his, but neither tribunician power nor imperium of any kind was conferred upon him during his brief reign. ^[58] Understandably, the new emperor was not hardpressed to alter this arrangement anytime soon: he would have expected to rule for at least another twenty or thirty years, and more urgent attention was required to the multitude of disasters which struck throughout 79 and 80. On August 24, 79, Mount Vesuvius erupted,^[59] burying the surrounding cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum under metres of ash and lava; the following year, a fire broke out in Rome, lasting three days, which destroyed a number of important public buildings. Events 49 BC - Julius Caesar 's General Gaius Scribonius Curio is defeated in the Second Battle of the Bagradas River Year 79 was a Common year starting on Friday (link will display the full calendar of the Julian calendar. Mount Vesuvius (in Italian Monte Vesuvio and in Latin Mons Vesuvius) is an active Stratovolcano east of Naples Pompeii is a ruined and partially buried Roman town-city near modern Naples and Caserta in the Italian region of Campania, in Herculaneum (in modern Italian Ercolano) is an ancient Roman town located in the territory of the current commune of Ercolano. Lava is molten rock expelled by a Volcano during an eruption When first expelled from a volcanic vent it is a Liquid at Temperatures ^[60] Consequently, Titus spent much of his reign coördinating relief efforts and restoring damaged property. On September 13, 81 however, after barely two years in office, he unexpectedly died of fever during a trip to the Sabine territories. Events 509 BC - The Temple of Jupiter on Rome 's Capitoline Hill is dedicated on the ides of September Year 81 was a Common year starting on Monday (link will display the full calendar of the Julian calendar. The Sabines ( Latin Sabini, Singular Sabinus) were an Italic tribe that lived in ancient Italy, inhabiting ^[61]

A number of ancient authors have implicated Domitian in the death of his brother, either by directly accusing him of murder,^[62] or implying he left the ailing Titus for dead,^[52][63] further alleging that even during his lifetime, Titus was openly plotted against by his brother. ^[63] The factual veracity of these statements, especially given the bias of the surviving sources, is difficult to assess. Bias is a term used to describe a Tendency or Preference towards a particular perspective, Ideology or result especially when the tendency interferes Brotherly affection was likely at a minimum, but this was hardly surprising, considering Domitian had barely seen Titus after the age of seven. ^[58] Whatever the nature of their relationship, Domitian seems to have displayed little concern when his brother lay dying, instead making for the Praetorian camp where he was proclaimed emperor. Castra Praetoria are the ancient barracks ( Castra) of the Praetorian Guard of Imperial Rome. The following day, September 14, the Senate confirmed Domitian's powers, granting tribunician power, the office of Pontifex Maximus, and the titles of Augustus, and Pater Patriae. Events 81 - Domitian becomes Emperor of the Roman Empire upon the death of his brother Titus. The Pontifex Maximus was the high priest of the Ancient Roman College of Pontiffs. Augustus (plural augusti) Latin for "majestic" "the increaser" or "venerable" was an Ancient Roman Pater Patriae (plural Patres Patriae) also seen as Parens Patriae, is a Latin Honorific meaning " Father

Emperor

Administration

Bust of Domitian, Louvre, Paris. The Louvre Museum (Musée du Louvre located in Paris is the world's most visited art museum a historic monument and a national museum of France Paris (ˈpærɨs in English; in French) is the Capital of France and the country's largest city

As emperor, Domitian quickly dispensed with the Republican facade his father and brother had maintained during their reign. ^[64] By moving the centre of government more or less formerly to the imperial court, Domitian openly rendered the Senate's powers obsolete. A court is a forum used by a power base to adjudicate disputes and dispense civil, labour administrative and criminal Justice under its In his view, the Roman Empire was to be governed as a divine monarchy, with himself as the benevolent despot at its head. The Divine Right of Kings is a general term that refers to the philosophy and ideas used to justify the authority and legitimacy of Monarchs in Medieval and ^[64] Much more than exercising political power however, Domitian believed the emperor's role enveloped every aspect of daily life, guiding the Roman people both as a cultural and moral authority. Culture (from the Latin cultura stemming from colere, meaning "to cultivate" generally refers to patterns of human activity and the symbolic ^[65] To usher in the new era of change, he embarked on several ambitious economic, military and cultural programmes, intended to restore the Empire to the glory it had once achieved under emperor Augustus. Augustus ( Latin: IMPERATOR·CAESAR·DIVI·FILIVS·AVGVSTVS September 23 63 BC – August 19 AD 14) born Gaius Octavius Thurinus, was ^[66]

Despite these grand designs however, Domitian was determined to govern the Empire concientiously and scrupulously, to the extent that he became personally involved in all branches of the administration. ^[67] Edicts were issued on the finest details of everyday life, while taxes, laws, and public morals were rigorously enforced. An edict is an announcement of a Law, often associated with monarchism. According to Suetonius, the imperial bureaucracy never ran more efficiently than under Domitian, whose exacting standards maintained historically low corruption among provincial governors and elected officials. Bureaucracy is the structure and set of regulations in place to control activity usually in large organizations and government A Roman governor was an official either elected or appointed to be the chief administrator of Roman law throughout one or more of the many provinces constituting the ^[68] Although he made no pretense of the Senate's insignificance, those deemed unworthy to be placed on the Senate roll were expelled, while in the distribution of public offices he rarely favoured his own family members, a policy which stood in sharp contrast to the nepotism practiced by Vespasian and Titus. Nepotism is the showing of favoritism toward relatives and friends based upon that relationship rather than on an objective evaluation of ability Meritocracy or suitability ^[69]

Economy

Upon his accession, Domitian revalued the Roman coinage to the standard of Augustus, before an imminent crisis in 85 forced a devaluation to the Neronian standard of 65. The main Roman currency during most of the Roman Republic and the western half of the Roman Empire consisted of coins including the Aureus (gold the Devaluation is a reduction in the value of a Currency with respect to other monetary units ^[70] This was still higher than the level which Vespasian and Titus had maintained during their reign, and Domitian's rigorous financial policy ensured that this standard was sustainted for the remainder of his rule. ^[70]

Due to his love of the arts and to woo the population, Domitian invested large sums in the reconstruction and embellishment of the city, still suffering the effects of the great fire of Rome of 64, the civil war of 69, and the fires that plagued Rome the year following the eruption of Mt. According to the historian Tacitus, the Great Fire of Rome started on the night of 18 July in the year AD 64, among the shops clustered around the Vesuvius during Titus' reign. Around fifty new buildings were erected and restored, including the Temple of Jupiter on the Capitoline Hill and a palace in the Palatine Hill. See Temple of Jupiter for temples to him in other places The Temple of Jupiter Optimus Maximus ("Jupiter greatest and best" also known The Capitoline Hill, between the Forum and the Campus Martius, is one of the seven hills of Rome. The Palatine Hill ( Latin: Collis Palatium or Mons Palatinus) is the centermost of the Seven Hills of Rome

Domitian's greatest passions were the arts and the games. He implemented the Capitoline Games in 86. In Ancient Rome, the Capitoline Games ( Latin: Ludi Capitolini) were annual games or Combats instituted For the processor see Intel 8086. Year 86 was a Common year starting on Sunday (link will display the full calendar of the Julian Like the Olympic Games, they were to be held every four years and included athletic displays, chariot races, but also oratory, music and acting competitions. The Olympic Games is an international Multi-sport event established for both summer and winter games The Emperor himself supported the travels of competitors from the whole empire and attributed the prizes. He was also very fond of gladiator shows and added important innovations like female and dwarf gladiator fights. Gladiators (gladiatores "swordsmen" or "one who uses a sword" from la ''gladius'' "sword" were professional fighters in Ancient Rome who fought

Military campaigns

The major military contribution of Domitian was the development of the Limes (in particular the Limes Germanicus) to defend the empire. A limes (or the Limes Romanus) was a Border defense or delimiting system of Ancient Rome. The Limes Germanicus ( Latin for Germanic frontier) was a remarkable line of frontier ( Limes) forts that bounded the ancient Roman During his Empire wars had usually a defensive nature. Domitian was accused not to be a gifted military commander, due to his education in Rome away from the legions and to limit the Roman military enterprises for this reason. For other uses see Legion The Roman Legion (from Latin legio "military levy Conscription," He claimed several Roman triumphs, namely over the Chatti and in Britain, but they were only propaganda manoeuvres, since these wars were still being fought. A Roman triumph ( la [[wikttriumphus triumphus]], Old Latin la triumpus, attested as the exclamation la TRIVMPE in the Carmen Arvale; via The Chatti (also Chatthi or Catti) were an ancient Germanic tribe whose homeland was near the upper Weser. Nevertheless, several campaigns were fought during his reign, especially in the Danube frontier against Decebalus, king of Dacians. The Danube (In Donau from earlier Danuvius, Celtic *dānu, meaning "to flow run" Slovak and Polish Dunaj Decebalus or "The Brave One" was a king of Dacia (originally named Diurpaneus &mdashruled the Dacians 87 – 106 and is famous for fighting three The Dacians ( Lat Daci, Gr Dákai) were a Thracian people the ancient inhabitants of Dacia (located in the area Domitian also founded Legio I Minervia in 82, to fight against Chatti. Legio I Minervia (Latin prima minérvia) was a Roman legion levied by emperor Domitian in 82, for the campaign against

Religious policy

Denarius of Domitian.

In 85, Domitian nominated himself perpetual censor, the office which held the task of supervising Roman morals and conduct. Year 85 was a Common year starting on Saturday (link will display the full calendar of the Julian calendar. A Censor was a magistrate of high rank in the ancient Roman Republic.

According to many historians, Jews and Christians were heavily persecuted toward the end of Domitian's reign. PLEASE TAKE NOTE************ Christianity ( Greek Χριστιανισμός from the word Xριστός ( Christ)is a monotheistic Religion centered on the life and teachings ^[71] The Book of Revelation is thought by many scholars to have been written during Domitian's reign as a reaction to persecution. The Book of Revelation, also called Revelation to John, Apocalypse of John ( pronounced, from the Ἀποκάλυψις Ἰωάννου ^[72][73] Other historians, however, have maintained that there was little or no persecution of Christians during Domitian's time. ^[74][75][76] There is no historical consensus on the matter. ^[72]

Relationship with the Senate

The emperor is known, however, to have developed a paranoid fear of persecution that led him to kill or execute several members of the senatorial and equestrian orders. Paranoia is a disturbed thought process characterized by excessive Anxiety or Fear, often to the point of Irrationality and Delusion. At least twenty political and ideological opponents were executed, including his cousin, the Consul Flavius Clemens. Titus Flavius Clemens was a great-nephew of the Roman Emperor Vespasian. ^[72] Domitian disliked aristocrats and had no fear of showing it, withdrawing every decision-making power from the Senate. The Roman Senate was a political institution in Ancient Rome. He signed documents dominus et deus ("Lord and God") ^[77], and required people to address him similarly. Coins of the period represent him enthroned as "father of the gods".

Death and succession

Assassination

According to Suetonius, Domitian worshipped Minerva (19th century mosaic) as his protector goddess with superstitious veneration. The MInisterial NEtwoRk for Valorising Activities in digitisation, or MINERVA, is a European Union organization concerned with the digitisation of cultural and Art History Mosaics of the 4th century BC are found in the Macedonian palace-city of Aegae, and they enriched the floors of Hellenistic In a dream, she is said to have abandoned the emperor prior to the assassination. Dreams are the images sounds thoughts and feelings experienced while Sleeping, particularly strongly associated with Rapid eye movement sleep. AssassiNation is the sixth album by Krisiun, released in 2006 on Century Media.

Domitian was murdered on September 18, 96, in a palace conspiracy organized by court officials. Events 96 - Nerva is proclaimed Roman Emperor after Domitian is assassinated Year 96 was a Leap year starting on Friday (link will display the full calendar of the Julian calendar. ^[78] A highly detailed account of the plot and the assassination is provided to us by Suetonius, who alleges that Domitian's chamberlain Parthenius was the chief instigator behind the conspiracy, citing the recent execution of Domitian's secretary Epaphroditus as the primary motive. Epaphroditus is a Saint of the Orthodox Church and the Catholic Church, first Bishop of Philippi, and of Andriacia in ^[79] The murder itself was carried out by a freedman of Parthenius named Maximus, and a steward of Domitian's niece Flavia Domitilla, named Stephanus. Flavia Domitilla may refer to Domitilla the Elder, the wife of the Roman Emperor Vespasian Domitilla the Younger, Vespasian's only daughter The precise involvement of the Praetorian guard is less clear however. At the time, the guard was headed by Norbanus and Titus Petronius Secundus, the latter who seems almost certainly to have been aware of the plot against Domitian. Titus Petronius Secundus (40&ndash97 was a prefect of the Roman imperial Bodyguard, known as the Praetorian Guard, under ^[80] Cassius Dio, writing nearly a hundred years after the assassination, also includes Domitia Longina among the conspirators, but in light of her well attested devotion to Domitian—even years after her husband had died—her involvement in the plot seems highly unlikely. ^[81]

Dio further suggests the assassination was improvised on the spur of a moment. ^[82] The account of Suetonius however implies a well organized conspiracy. For some days before the attack took place, Stephanus feigned an injury so as to be able to conceal a dagger beneath his bandages. A dagger (from Vulgar Latin: 'daca' - a Dacian Knife) is a typically double-edged blade used for Stabbing or thrusting ^[83] The emperor believed that, according to an astrological prediction, he would die around noon. Astrology (from Greek grc ἄστρον astron, "constellation star" and grc -λογία -logia) is a group of Systems Therefore, he was always restless during this time of the day. On his last day, Domitian was feeling disturbed and asked a servant boy several times what time it was. The boy, included in the plot, lied, saying that it was much later. ^[84] More at ease, the emperor went to his desk to sign some decrees, where he was suddenly approached by Stephanus:

Domitian and Stephanus continued to wrestle on the ground for some time, until he was finally overpowered and fatally stabbed by the conspirators. Around noon the emperor, just one month short of his 45th birthday, was dead. His body was carried away on a common bier, and unceremoniously cremated by his nurse Phyllis, who later mingled the ashes with those of his niece Julia, at the Flavian temple. A bier is a stand on which a corpse, or Coffin containing a corpse is placed to Lie in state or to be carried to the Grave. Cremation is the act of reducing a Corpse by burning, generally in a crematorium furnace or crematory fire ^[83] According to Suetonius, a number of omens had foretold Domitian's death. An omen (also called portent or presage) is a phenomenon that is believed to foretell the Future, often signifying the advent of change ^[85] Several days prior to the assassination, Minerva appeared to him in a dream, announcing she had been disarmed by Jupiter, and would no longer be able to protect him. The MInisterial NEtwoRk for Valorising Activities in digitisation, or MINERVA, is a European Union organization concerned with the digitisation of cultural and Dreams are the images sounds thoughts and feelings experienced while Sleeping, particularly strongly associated with Rapid eye movement sleep. ^[85]

Succession and aftermath

Bust of emperor Nerva. Marcus Cocceius Nerva was also the name of a Roman emperor NERVA is an acronym for Nuclear Engine for Rocket According to some authors, Nerva took part or had advance knowledge of the plot against Domitian. Immediately following the assassination, he was proclaimed emperor by the Senate. The Roman Senate was a political institution in Ancient Rome.

The Fasti Ostienses, the Ostian Calendar, records that the same day, Marcus Cocceius Nerva was proclaimed emperor. ^[86] At the time, he was considered an unlikely choice for the position, prompting both ancient and modern authors to speculate on his involvement in Domitian's assassination. ^[87] Cassius Dio writes that prior to the assassination, the conspirators discussed the matter of succession with various candidates they deemed viable, one of which was Nerva, who was approached not only on account of his administrative qualities, but also because they claimed he had recently fallen under suspicion of Domitian, and would have nothing further to lose if he took part in the plot. ^[88] While his involvement in the conspiracy may never be ascertained,^[89] modern historians now believe Nerva was proclaimed emperor solely on the initiative of the Senate, within hours after the news of the assassination broke. The Roman Senate was a political institution in Ancient Rome. ^[86] Neither appears to have been involved in the conspiracy. ^[90]

Following the accession of Nerva as emperor, the Senate passed damnatio memoriae on Domitian: his coins and statues were melted, his arches were torn down and his name was erased from all public records. Damnatio memoriae is the Latin phrase literally meaning "damnation of memory" in the sense of removed from the remembrance. An arch is a structure that spans a space while supporting weight (e ^[91][92] Domitian is the only known emperor to have officially received a damnatio memoriae, though others may have received de facto ones. Many of the images that survive of Domitian's successor, Nerva, were actually once Domitian but converted to Nerva after the damnatio was issued. Nearly all surviving images of Domitian were found in the provinces. The palace of Domitian was renamed the "House of the People", and Nerva himself took up residence in Vespasian's former villa, the Gardens of Sallust. The Flavian Palace, also known as Domus Flavia, is a part of the vast residential complex of the Roman Emperors on the Palatine Hill in Rome. The Gardens of Sallust ( Latin: Horti Sallustiani) were Roman gardens developed by the Roman historian Sallust in the 1st century ^[93]

Despite the swift transition of power, support for Domitian remained strong in the army, which had called for his deification immediately after the assassination. The Roman army was a set of military forces employed by the Roman Kingdom, Roman Republic and later Roman Empire as part of the Roman military ^[91] As a compensation measure, the Praetorian guard demanded the execution of Domitian's assassins, which Nerva refused. ^[94] Instead he merely dismissed Titus Petronius Secundus, and replaced him with a former commander, Casperius Aelianus. Casperius Aelianus, who served as Praetorian Prefect under the emperors Domitian and Nerva, was a Praetorian Prefect loyal to the Roman ^[95] Dissatisfaction with this state of affairs continued to loom over Nerva's reign, and ultimately erupted into a crisis in October of 97, when members of the Praetorian guard, led by Casperius Aelianus, laid siege to the Imperial Palace and took Nerva hostage. Year 97 was a Common year starting on Sunday (link will display the full calendar of the Julian calendar. ^[96] He was forced to submit to their demands, agreeing to hand over those responsible for Domitian's death and even giving a speech thanking the rebellious Praetorians. ^[97] Titus Petronius Secundus and Parthenius were sought out and killed. Nerva was unharmed in this assault, but his authority was damaged beyond repair. ^[96] Shortly thereafter he announced the adoption of Trajan as his successor,^[96] and with this decision all but abdicated. Marcus Ulpius Nerva Traianus, commonly known as Trajan ( September 18 53 &ndash August 9 117) was a Roman Emperor who Abdication (from the Latin abdicatio, disowning renouncing from ab, away from and dicare, to declare to proclaim as not belonging to one ^[98][99]

Legacy

Ancient sources

The classic view of Domitian as Emperor is usually negative since most of the antique sources are related to the Senatorial aristocratic class, and, as emperor, Domitian tended to have a strong independent action, often against the Senate. Juvenal, Tacitus and Suetonius authored information about the reign of Domitian after it ended. This would have been impolitic.

• Juvenal, an author of Roman satire, depicted Domitian and his court as corrupt, violent, and unjust. Decimus Iunius Iuvenalis, known in English as Juvenal, was a Roman Poet active in the late 1st and early 2nd century AD author of the
• Martial's work contains references and epigrams to Domitian. Marcus Valerius Martialis (known in English as Martial) (March 1 40 AD - ca
• Suetonius, author of the Lives of the Twelve Caesars, the most extensive ancient account of the life of the emperor extant. Gaius Suetonius Tranquillus, commonly known as Suetonius (ca 69/75 &ndash after 130 was an equestrian and a historian during the Roman Empire.
• Statius wrote four poems that contained information about Domitian's life. Publius Papinius Statius (ca 45-96 was a Roman Poet of the Silver Age of Latin literature, born in Naples, Italy.
• Tacitus, a historian, spoke from personal knowledge when he wrote his Histories on the arc of the Flavian dynasty. Publius (or Gaius) Cornelius Tacitus (ca 56 &ndash ca 117 was a senator and a Historian of the Roman Empire. Histories ( Latin: Historiae) is a book by Tacitus, written c Unfortunately, the part of this work dealing with the reign of Domitian is lost.

Domitian in later arts

Literature

• Domitia and Domitian (2000), a historical novel by David Corson based on the works of Brian Jones and Pat Southern, revolving around the titular characters.
• Marcus Didius Falco novels (1989–?), a series of historical crime novels by Lindsey Davis, set during the reign of Vespasian. Marcus Didius Falco is the central character and narrator in a series of Novels by Lindsey Davis. Lindsey Davis, Historical novelist was born in Birmingham, England in 1949
• The Light Bearer (1994), a historical novel by Donna Gillespie. The Light Bearer is a book by Donna Gillespie, set in the time of the Roman Empire.
• The Roman Actor (1626), a play by Philip Massinger which features Domitian as the main character. The Roman Actor is a Caroline era stage play a tragedy written by Philip Massinger; it was first performed in 1626, and first published in Philip Massinger (1583 &ndash March 17, 1640) was an English Dramatist.

Painting

• The Triumph of Titus by Lawrence Alma-Tadema (1885). Sir Lawrence Alma-Tadema, OM, RA ( January 8, 1836, Dronrijp, the Netherlands. Year 1885 ( MDCCCLXXXV) was a Common year starting on Thursday (link will display the full calendar of the Gregorian calendar (or a Common Oil on canvas. Private collection. This painting depicts the triumphal procession of Titus and his family. Alma-Tadema was known for his meticulous historical research on the ancient world. ^[100] Vespasian, dressed as Pontifex Maximus, walks at the head of his family, followed by Domitian and his first wife Domitia Longina, who he had only recently married. The Pontifex Maximus was the high priest of the Ancient Roman College of Pontiffs. Domitia Longina (c 53 &ndash c 130 was an Empress and wife to the Roman Emperor Domitian. Behind Domitian follows Titus, dressed in religious regalia. An exchange of glances between Titus and Domitia suggests an affair which historians have speculated upon. ^[61][63]

Film and television

• La Rivolta dei Pretoriani (1964), Italian film directed by Alfonso Brescia, concerning a fictional plot of the Praetorian guard to overthrow Domitian. Italy (Italia officially the Italian Republic, (Repubblica Italiana is located on the Italian Peninsula in Southern Europe, and on the two largest Alfonso Brescia ( 6 January, 1930 - 6 June, 2001) was an Italian Film director of low budget films sometimes credited as With Piero Lulli as Domitian.
• Dacii (1967), Romanian film directed by Sergiu Nicolaescu about the Dacian campaign of Domitian. Romania ( dated: Rumania, Roumania Sergiu Florin Nicolaescu (born 13 April 1930) is a Romanian Film director, actor and politician With György Kovács as Domitian.
• Age of Treason (1993), English television film, featuring Marcus Didius Falco from the crime novels by Lindsey Davis. England is a Country which is part of the United Kingdom. Its inhabitants account for more than 83% of the total UK population whilst its mainland The story is set during the reign of Vespasian, with Domitian, played by Jamie Glover, as a peripheral character. Jamie Glover (born 10 July 1969) is an English Actor. Career Glover made his professional debut in the soap opera Jupiter Moon
• San Giovanni - L'apocalisse (2003), English television film concerning the persecution of Christians under Domitian, who appears as a major character, played by Bruce Payne. Bruce Martyn Payne (born November 22, 1960 in London, England) is an English actor and producer

Notes

References

• Jones, Brian W. (1992). The Emperor Domitian. London: Routledge. ISBN 0-415-10195-6.  
• Morgan, Llewelyn (1997). "Achilleae Comae: Hair and Heroism According to Domitian" (subscription required). The Classical Quarterly, New Series 47 (1): pp. 209–214.  
• Murison, Charles Leslie (2003). "M. Cocceius Nerva and the Flavians" (subscription required). Transactions of the American Philological Association 133 (1): pp. 147–157.  

Further reading

• Gsell, Stéphane (1894). Essai sur le règne de l'empereur Domitien (HTML, PDF), Bibliothèque des Écoles françaises d'Athènes et de Rome (in French), Paris: E. Bibliothèque des Écoles françaises d'Athènes et de Rome (trans "Library of the French schools of Greece and Rome" is the name of two series of historical documents such French ( français,) is a Romance language spoken around the world by 118 million people as a native language and by about 180 to 260 million people Thorin.  
• Southern, Pat (1997). Domitian: Tragic Tyrant. London: Routledge. ISBN 0-415-16525-3.  

External links

Primary sources

• Cassius Dio, Roman History Book 67, English translation
• Suetonius, The lives of Twelve Caesars, Life of Domitian, Latin text with English translation
• Tacitus, Agricola, English translation

Secondary material

• Donahue, John (1997-10-10). Lucius Cassius Dio Cocceianus ( Greek:) (c 155 or 163/164 to after 229 known in English as Cassius Dio, Dio Cassius, or Dio was Gaius Suetonius Tranquillus, commonly known as Suetonius (ca 69/75 &ndash after 130 was an equestrian and a historian during the Roman Empire. Publius (or Gaius) Cornelius Tacitus (ca 56 &ndash ca 117 was a senator and a Historian of the Roman Empire. Year 1997 ( MCMXCVII) was a Common year starting on Wednesday (link will display full 1997 Gregorian calendar Events 680 - Battle of Karbala: Shia Imam Husayn bin Ali, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad, is decapitated Titus Flavius Domitianus (A.D. 81-96). De Imperatoribus Romanis: An Online Encyclopedia of Roman Rulers and their Families. Retrieved on 2007-02-10. Year 2007 ( MMVII) was a Common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar in the 21st century. Events 1355 - The St Scholastica's Day riot breaks out in Oxford, England, leaving 63 scholars and perhaps 30 locals dead