Life of Domitian
Domitian (51-96 AD) was the last Roman emperor of the Flavian dynasty. He was the son of Vespasian and the younger brother of Titus. Domitian was a controversial emperor, but he was also a complex and fascinating figure.
Domitian was born in Rome in 51 AD. He received a good education and was trained in the military. After his father became emperor in 69 AD, Domitian was given a number of important positions in the government. He served as consul several times and was also commander of the Praetorian Guard.
When Titus died in 81 AD, Domitian was declared emperor by the Praetorian Guard. However, his claim to the throne was disputed by some members of the Senate. Domitian eventually prevailed, and he was officially recognized as emperor by the Senate in 82 AD.
Domitian's reign was marked by both successes and failures. On the one hand, he was a successful military commander. He expanded the Roman Empire's borders and defeated the Dacians and the Chatti in two major wars. On the other hand, Domitian was also a paranoid and suspicious ruler. He executed many of his political enemies, and he was accused of being a tyrant.
Domitian was also a patron of the arts and sciences. He built a new library in Rome and supported poets and philosophers. He also oversaw the construction of a number of public works projects, including the Temple of Jupiter Optimus Maximus and the Domitian Stadium.
Domitian was assassinated in 96 AD by a group of conspirators that included members of the Senate and the Praetorian Guard. His assassination marked the end of the Flavian dynasty.
Domitian is a complex and controversial figure. He was a successful military commander, but he was also a paranoid and suspicious ruler. He was also a patron of the arts and sciences, and he oversaw the construction of a number of public works projects. Domitian's reign was marked by both successes and failures, and he remains a controversial figure to this day.