Quick Facts
Son of Emperor Claudius who was poisoned by Nero, his stepbrother, just before coming of age - a tragic prince denied his birthright.
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Life Journey
Born as Tiberius Claudius Germanicus, son of Emperor Claudius and Messalina.
Given the honorary name Britannicus after his father's successful conquest of Britain.
His mother Messalina was executed for adultery and conspiracy, leaving him motherless.
His father married Agrippina the Younger, who brought her son Lucius (Nero) into the family.
Claudius adopted Nero, placing him ahead of Britannicus in the succession.
Educated alongside his stepbrother Nero, already sensing the growing rivalry.
Tension grew between him and Nero as Agrippina systematically advanced her son's position.
Nero came of age and was clearly being groomed for power over Britannicus.
Emperor Claudius died, possibly poisoned by Agrippina; Nero became emperor.
Despite being closer in blood, watched his stepbrother ascend to the throne instead.
Systematically marginalized at court, his supporters removed or eliminated.
As he approached manhood, he became an increasingly dangerous rival to Nero.
Invited to dine with Nero on the eve of the Saturnalia festival.
Died suddenly at the banquet after drinking poisoned wine, Nero claiming he died from epilepsy.
Buried hastily that same night in the rain, denied proper imperial honors.