Nero

Nero (Nero Claudius Caesar Augustus Germanicus; 15 December 37 AD – 9 June 68 AD) was the fifth Roman emperor, ruling from 54 AD until his death in 68 AD. His infamous reign is usually associated with tyranny, extravagance, and debauchery.

Early Life

Nero was born Lucius Domitius Ahenobarbus on 15 December 37 AD in Antium. He was the only son of Gnaeus Domitius Ahenobarbus and Agrippina the Younger, the sister of Emperor Caligula. Nero's father died in 40 AD, and his mother married her uncle, Emperor Claudius, who adopted Nero in 50 AD.

Reign

Nero became emperor at the age of 17 when his stepfather, Claudius, died. His reign is often associated with tyranny and extravagance. He is known for many executions, including that of his mother, and the probable murder by poison of his stepbrother, Britannicus.

Nero is infamously known as the Emperor who "fiddled while Rome burned" and as an early persecutor of Christians. He is also known for his indulgence in music and culture, which led to many changes in the Roman cultural scene.

Death

Nero died on 9 June 68 AD, when he was forced to commit suicide after losing the support of the Roman senate and the army. His death ended the Julio-Claudian Dynasty, sparking a brief period of civil wars known as the Year of the Four Emperors.

Legacy

Nero's rule is often associated with tyranny and debauchery. However, some sources suggest that he was a competent ruler who was popular with the Roman people, especially in the East.

See Also

• Julio-Claudian Dynasty
• Roman Empire
• Year of the Four Emperors

External Links

• Nero at Encyclopædia Britannica

Nero Resources
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