Four emperors ruled the Roman Empire from 68-69 A.D. Nero, Galba, Otho, and Vitellius all took their turn only to be deposed. Following Vitellius’ death, Vespasian assumed the reigns of power. Unlike his immediate predecessors, the new emperor survived. Vespasian ruled for a decade, stabilized Rome, initiated reforms, and began work on the Coliseum and other building projects.
Vespasian and his forces removed Vitellius from power. On July 1, 69 A.D., he assumed the throne. Upon taking power, he increased the grain supply to Rome, promised to repeal Nero’s unpopular laws, and claimed to see visions. The Senate confirmed Vespasian in December. Meanwhile, the emperor worked to reform Rome’s finances.
Nero bankrupted the empire. Vespasian reaffirmed most taxes and created new ones. Most importantly, he created a system to watch treasury officials. Some areas revolted against the tax policy, but proved no match for Vespasian’s forces. Unlike his four immediate predecessors, he did not experience a major challenge. Despite this, he quelled malcontents in Egypt, Gaul, and Germania. His son ended the Jewish Revolt.
Throughout his early reign, stories circulated about Vespasian’s ability to work miracles. Some believed he experienced visions. The emperor did little to counter these rumors as they served to justify his rule and proved useful propaganda. In fact, he circulated some of the stories himself.
Vespasian proved adept at propaganda. In addition to supernatural stories, he portrayed himself as the peace emperor. Vespasian brought both military success and peace to the empire. Additionally, chroniclers needed imperial approval to print stories about Vespasian and his administration. This information control helps explain the gaps in modern knowledge about his reign.
The greatest propaganda coup came in the form of construction projects. He rebuilt Rome following the civil wars. This included buildings and temples, which he often dedicated to peace. The emperor also built theaters and a colossal statue of Apollo. His most impressive and lasting project was the Coliseum. Construction began around 70 A.D. and took a decade. It opened following the emperor’s death.
Vespasian died on June 23, 79 from a fever. Supposedly, he claimed to be transforming into a god. His son Titus succeeded the emperor. The Flavian Dynasty founded by Vespasian ruled the empire until 96 A.D.
Vespasian ended the turmoil Nero began. Following four successive emperors, Vespasian emerged the last man standing. The general proved an able administrator initiating many reforms. The dynasty he founded rule Rome for nearly 30 years. His greatest legacy proved restoring peace and stability to Rome as well as creating the Coliseum.
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