Nerva, Trajan, Hadrian Flashcards
Which period ended when Domitian died?
End of Flavian period
How did Nerva replace Domitian?
Palace conspirators killed Domitian and replaced him with Nerva
What is the new period in history called when Nerva started to rule?
Antonine period
How did Nerva improve his popularity with the Senate?
- Forgave those accused of treason under Domitian.
- Consulted the Senate regularly.
- Refused gold and silver statues of himself.
- Offered food for poor children
- Ended unfair Jewish taxes.
What controversial actions did Nerva take early in his reign?
Executed informers but later stopped due to chaos.
too lenient
What were the key plots against Nerva?
Calpurnius Crassus: Tried bribing the Praetorian Guard but failed to assassinate Nerva; exiled and later executed by Hadrian.
Casperius Aelianus: Praetorian Prefect who captured Nerva, demanding punishment of Domitian’s assassins.
What weaknesses did Nerva face during his reign?
Lacked military support; struggled to control the Praetorian Guard.
Forced to endorse punishment of Domitian’s murderers.
Seen as a compromised leader, easily pushed by others.
Who was the next heir after Nerva?
Nerva adopted Trajan to be his heir
How did Nerva die?
Died of a fever in Gardens of Salis
What did Nerva rename the Domitian’s palace to?
- House of the people
- to return the golden house to the people
What political position did Trajan hold under Domitian?
He served as consul
Why didn’t Trajan go to Rome immediately after becoming emperor?
He toured the empire to secure loyalty, especially from the army.
How did Trajan enter Rome after becoming emperor?
On foot, greeting senators as equals.
What notable quote illustrates Trajan’s humility and dedication?
“Take this sword, in order that, if I rule well, you may use it for me, but if ill, against me.”
How did Trajan maintain good relations with the Senate?
He treated them with dignity and attended social events without a guard.
What were Trajan’s major military campaigns?
Dacian Wars
Parthian Campaign
What title was Trajan given for his character and accomplishments?
Optimus Princeps (“Best Ruler”).
What major construction projects did Trajan undertake?
Public works (bridges, roads)
improved Roman Infrastructure
What health issues led to Trajan’s death?
suffered stroke and failing health
Who secured the empire for Hadrian after Trajan’s death?
His wife Plotina and his friend Attianus, a Praetorian Prefect.
What did Trajan build in his forum to commemorate his work?
An enormous column, serving as a monument to himself and his work, made possible by leveling a hill for the forum.
What parts made up Trajan’s Forum and Markets?
Libraries, offices, marketplaces, open spaces, public business areas, and a temple for the divine region.
What war funded Trajan’s Forum and Markets?
The Dacian Wars, which expanded Roman territory into modern Romania.
What was the primary purpose of Trajan’s Market?
It included market stalls, administrative rooms, and spaces for public business.