Tiberius
Tiberius Julius Caesar Augustus was the second Roman emperor, ruling from AD 14 to AD 37.
Tiberius Julius Caesar Augustus was the second Roman emperor, ruling from AD 14 to AD 37. He was adopted by Augustus and had a successful military career before his reign. His rule is often described as initially effective but later marked by political suspicion, treason trials, and withdrawal from public life.
Early life and family
Tiberius was born in 42 BC to Tiberius Claudius Nero and Livia Drusilla. Through Livia’s later marriage to Augustus, Tiberius became part of the Julio-Claudian imperial family.
Rise to power
Tiberius built his career through military and political service under Augustus. He became Augustus’s adopted heir and succeeded him as emperor in AD 14.
Reign as emperor
Tiberius ruled the Roman Empire from AD 14 to AD 37. His administration preserved much of Augustus’s system and left a strong treasury, but his later reign became associated with treason trials and repression.
Final years and legacy
In his last years, Tiberius withdrew from Rome and lived on Capri. Ancient historians and later writers have produced sharply different portrayals of his character and rule.
Key facts
- He was the second emperor of the Roman Empire.
- He was born Tiberius Claudius Nero and later adopted by Augustus.
- Before becoming emperor, he served as a military commander and administrator.
- His early reign is often described as effective and financially prudent.
- Ancient and modern sources differ on whether he was a capable ruler or a tyrant.
Tiberius is relevant to Canadian readers through the study of Roman history, which is commonly taught in classical studies, history, and Latin curricula in Canada.
Frequently asked questions
Who was Tiberius?
Was Tiberius related to Augustus?
What was Tiberius known for before becoming emperor?
Where did Tiberius spend his later years?
Who succeeded Tiberius?
Was Tiberius a good emperor?
References
- Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/TiberiusSupports: Basic biographical details: full name, dates, parentage, reign, dynasty, predecessor and successor.
- Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/biography/TiberiusSupports: Reign dates, adoption by Augustus, military reputation, treasury growth, and later reputation.
- BBC History — https://www.bbc.co.uk/history/historic_figures/tiberius.shtmlSupports: Birth and death dates, status as second emperor, and succession by Caligula.
- World History Encyclopedia — https://www.worldhistory.org/Tiberius/Supports: Overview of his reign, withdrawal to Capri, and characterization of his rule.