Pertinax

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Galleria degli Uffizi, Florence (19676748662)

Pertinax (1 August 126 – 28 March 193) was Roman Emperor for the first three months of the year 193, a period known as the Year of the Five Emperors. Born in Alba Pompeia in the province of Italia, he came from a modest background, his father being a freed slave. Pertinax worked his way up the military and civil ladders, eventually becoming a respected senator and governor of several provinces. His rise to power was marked by his competence and integrity in various governmental roles, contrasting sharply with the corruption and excess of his predecessor, Commodus.

Early Life and Career

Pertinax's early career was in education, where he earned a reputation for his knowledge and teaching ability. He transitioned to a military career, serving with distinction in various campaigns. His success in these roles led to his appointment as a provincial governor, where he was noted for his just and efficient administration.

Rise to Power

Following the assassination of Commodus on 31 December 192, Pertinax was proclaimed emperor by the Praetorian Guard, largely due to his reputation for fairness and his promise to restore the state's finances, which had been depleted by his predecessor's extravagance. His ascension was initially welcomed by the Roman Senate and the people of Rome, who were eager for a return to traditional Roman values and governance.

Reign

Pertinax's reign, though short-lived, was marked by attempts to reform the Roman government and restore fiscal responsibility. He reduced the excesses of the imperial court, attempted to enforce discipline in the Roman army, and sought to replenish the state treasury through various measures. However, his efforts to reform the Praetorian Guard, who had become accustomed to the lavish gifts and bonuses of previous emperors, ultimately led to his downfall.

Assassination

On 28 March 193, Pertinax was assassinated by members of the Praetorian Guard, unhappy with his strict reforms and the withholding of their expected payoffs. His death led to the auctioning of the empire to Didius Julianus, an event that underscored the chaotic state of the Roman Empire during this period and precipitated a civil war known as the Year of the Five Emperors.

Legacy

Pertinax's brief reign is often seen as a missed opportunity for the stabilization and reform of the Roman Empire. His integrity, discipline, and attempts at reform highlighted the potential for a return to the principles of the early Empire but also exposed the deep-seated corruption and challenges facing any ruler attempting significant reform. The chaos following his death underscored the fragility of the Roman political system at the time.

See Also

• Year of the Five Emperors
• Roman Emperor
• Praetorian Guard
• Commodus
• Didius Julianus