Quick Facts
Colosseum's finisher, Rome's rebuild, iron fist: Emperor Domitian controlled all.
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Life Journey
Titus Flavius Domitianus was born to Titus Flavius Vespasianus and Domitilla the Elder in Rome, the future Roman Emperor and military commander.
Domitian spent his early years in the imperial capital, receiving a classical education and being influenced by the political and military environment.
During the civil war, Domitian and his father Vespasian supported the Flavian faction, which ultimately led to Vespasian's rise to power.
Domitian was appointed Praetor with consular power, marking his entry into the Roman political elite and beginning his career in government.
Domitian married Domitia Longina, daughter of Gnaeus Domitius Corbulo, a distinguished general, solidifying a powerful political alliance.
Domitian was appointed Consul for the first time, a significant milestone in his political career, under the influence of his father Vespasian.
Upon the death of his brother Titus, Domitian succeeded to the throne, becoming the third and last emperor of the Flavian dynasty.
Domitian completed the construction of the Flavian Amphitheatre, known today as the Colosseum, a significant architectural and engineering achievement.
Following a devastating fire, Domitian initiated extensive rebuilding efforts, including the construction of new public buildings and the restoration of the city.
Domitian led military campaigns against the Germanic tribes, expanding Roman influence and securing the borders of the empire.
Domitian celebrated the Secular Games, a series of religious and theatrical events to mark the end of a saeculum, a period of 110 years.
Domitian successfully quelled the revolt led by Lucius Antonius Saturninus, a Roman governor, reinforcing his control over the military and the empire.
Domitian reformed the Roman Senate and administration, centralizing power and increasing his control over the government and the military.
Domitian's military campaigns in Britain extended Roman control, securing the northern frontier and fortifying Hadrian's Wall.
Domitian was assassinated in a conspiracy involving members of the Senate and his own household, ending his 15-year reign as Roman Emperor.