69 ad
Nero was
succeeded by Galba, whose dedication to reform quickly made him unpopular.
Although Clodius Macer's revolt in Africa was suppressed, the German legions then proclaimed
Vitellius emperor. Galba was assassinated in a coup led by Otho, who did not last
long as Emperor, taking his own life after his forces were defeated by Vitellius, who in
turn fell to Vespasian after losing the battle of Bedriacum. |
Servius Sulpicius Galba
Emperor 68-69Galba [b. 3 b.c.] had
a distinguished record as a general and governor when he was proclaimed Emperor during the
revolts preceding the death of Nero. His reforms made him unpopular with the army and on
January 15th, 69 he was assassinated by a conspiracy led by Otho.
Usurper:
Clodius Macer
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M. Salvius Otho
Emperor 69 Otho [b.
32] was a friend of Nero and governor of Lusitania at the time of Galba's revolt, which he
joined. He was disappointed at not being named Galba's successor and conspired to
overthrow him. Defeated by the forces of Vitellius, he commited suicide April 17, 69 after
reigning only 3 months.
|
Aulus Vitellius
Emperor 69 Vitellius
[b. 14] commanded the German legions, which acclaimed him January 2, 69. His generals
invaded Italy, and defeated Otho. His reign focused more on banquets than good government,
and when Vespasian's forces invaded Italy, Vitellius
was defeated. He wished to
abdicate, but was forced to keep the throne and perished when the Flavians took Rome
December 20, 69.
Relatives depicted on coins:
Lucius Vitellius - father;
Vitellius' children
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