Quick Facts
Third Roman Emperor whose reign began with promise but descended into tyranny, madness, and cruelty before his assassination.
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Life Journey
Born Gaius Julius Caesar Germanicus, son of the popular general Germanicus and Agrippina the Elder.
Grew up in military camps with his father, where soldiers nicknamed him 'Caligula' for his little soldier boots.
His beloved father Germanicus died under suspicious circumstances, possibly poisoned.
His mother Agrippina was exiled by Tiberius; she would later starve herself to death.
Summoned to live with Emperor Tiberius on Capri, surviving through careful submission.
Became emperor upon Tiberius's death, greeted with wild joy by Romans who hoped for a return to Augustan values.
First months marked by clemency, tax relief, public games, and freed political prisoners.
Fell gravely ill; Rome prayed for his recovery. When he recovered, his behavior began to change.
Executed his adopted son and cousin Tiberius Gemellus, the first sign of paranoid cruelty.
Began claiming divine status, appearing dressed as various gods and demanding worship.
Systematically humiliated senators, forcing them into degrading acts and threatening them capriciously.
Built a temporary bridge of boats across the Bay of Baiae and rode across it wearing Alexander's breastplate.
Led an army to invade Britain but reportedly ordered soldiers to collect seashells as 'spoils of the sea.'
His cruelty and unpredictability led Praetorian officers to plot his assassination.
Murdered by Praetorian guards led by Cassius Chaerea, stabbed over 30 times in a palace corridor.