Domitian (51

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Biography

Domitian ( də-MISH-ən, -⁠ee-ən; Latin: Domitianus was Roman emperor from 81 to 96. The son of Vespasian and the younger brother of Titus, his two predecessors on the throne, he was the last member of the Flavian dynasty. Described as "a ruthless but efficient autocrat", his authoritarian style of ruling put him at sharp odds with the Senate, whose powers he drastically curtailed.

Timeline

The story of Domitian, told in moments.

51 Birth

Born Titus Flavius Domitianus in Rome. His father Vespasian was a military commander, not yet emperor. Domitian grew up in poverty on Pomegranate Street while his father and brother fought wars abroad.

Growing up in poverty while your father fought wars abroad. Did you resent him? Pomegranate Street. Did humble origins embarrass you later?

69 Life

During the Year of the Four Emperors, Domitian hid in Rome while partisans fought for his father's claim. When Vespasian's forces took the city, 18-year-old Domitian was hailed as Caesar. His real role was nil.

Hailed as Caesar at eighteen while others did the fighting. Did that shame you? Hiding in Rome during the Year of the Four Emperors. Was that fear?

81 Event

Became emperor after his brother Titus died suddenly, possibly of fever. Domitian had waited in the wings for 12 years. He allegedly left Titus to die by ordering attendants to pack him in snow.

Some say you left Titus to die. Is there truth in that? Twelve years in the wings. Was patience the hardest part?

83 Event

Launched campaigns against the Chatti tribe in Germania. Built the Limes Germanicus, a frontier defense line running over 300 miles. Took the title Germanicus for himself.

300 miles of frontier defense. Were you building walls or building reputation? Did 'Germanicus' feel earned after the Chatti campaigns?

89 Life

Became increasingly paranoid after the revolt of Governor Saturninus in Germania. Began prosecuting senators for treason. Lined the walls of his palace with reflective stone so no one could approach unseen.

Lining palace walls with reflective stone. How deep did the paranoia go? After Saturninus's revolt, did you see traitors everywhere?

96 Death

Assassinated by court officials, including his wife Domitia Longina. Stabbed in the groin, then seven more times as he fought back. The Senate damned his memory and ordered his name chiseled off every public monument.

Stabbed in the groin by people you trusted. Even your wife? Your name chiseled off every monument. Does oblivion sting more than death?

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