The personalities of each of the men who vied for the throne in 69 AD had a major impact on how events unfolded.
The History of Rome - 067- What an Artist the World is Losing
In 66 AD the Great Revolt broke out in Judaea, leading Nero to appoint Vespasian to crush the uprising. But the Emperor did not live to see the end of the conflict- in 68 AD he committed suicide after a palace coup.
The History of Rome - 066- 666
Nero's popularity with the people began to wane in the early 60s AD. Things got so bad that after the Great Fire of Rome swept through the city, many held Nero responsible.
The History of Rome - 065- Burn It To The Ground
Between 58 and 63 AD Rome dealt with a major conflict over the Kingdom of Armenia and a revolt in Britain led by the warrior Queen Boudica.
The History of Rome - 064- Smite My Womb
After Nero came to power he was dominated by Agrippina. But it didn't take long before the 16-year-old Emperor got tired of his mother telling him what to do.
The History of Rome - 063- A Farewell to Claudius
Claudius turned out to be one of the more successful Emperors in Roman history, but unfortunately in 54 AD he was assassinated to make way for one of the worst.
The History of Rome - 062- Take My Wife…Please
Though Claudius had great success in his public life, his private life was a different story. Each of his marriages ended in either divorce or execution.
The History of Rome - 061- What, me Claudius?
Claudius became Emperor after the assassination of Caligula in 41 AD. Far from a bumbling fool, Claudius turned out to be capable and dedicated ruler.
The History of Rome - 060- No Better Slave, No Worse Master
Caligula was insane. Luckily for the Romans, he wielded absolute power.
The History of Rome - 059- To the Tiber with Tiberius
Tiberius's final years were consumed with treason trials and private licentiousness. After he died in 37 AD, the infamous Caligula ascended to the throne.