Nerva (96 - 98 AD)
Family and Background
Grandson of the consul of 39 BC, son of the noted jurist (consul
suffectus sometime before 26 AD) who was a close friend of Tiberius,
he was born on November 8, 30 AD. In 65 as praetor designate he
played a role in the suppression of the conspiracy of Piso and awarded
triumphal honors by Nero. He also composed poetry that Nero regarded
very highly. In 71 he was consul with Vespasian (a great honor), he
was consul for a second time in 90 with Domitian (an even greater sign
of imperial favor). He was proclaimed emperor on September 18, 96
after the assasination of Domitian.
Principal Events (Foriegn)
Principal Events (Domestic)
- Adoption of Trajan as his heir in the wake of a riot by the
praetorian guard
- Death (January 98)
Outlines of Policy
Most notable for the number of aged colleagues recalled to
administrative positions in 97, he was selected as emperor as a
stop-gap measure to prevent an immediate civil war after Domitian's
death. To his credit, he succeeded in arranging the succession of
Trajan without a civil war breaking out. He is said to have reversed
most of the legislation of Domitian's last years.
Further Reading
Cassius Dio, History of Rome 68;
Pliny the Younger, Letters and Panygeric;
A. Garzetti, From Tiberius to the Antonines;
R. Syme, Tacitus.