Trajan (53–117 CE)

Question 1

Who was Trajan?

Answer 1

A Roman emperor known for expanding the Roman Empire and initiating significant public works projects.

Question 2

When was Trajan born?

Answer 2

September 18, 53 CE.

Question 3

Where was Trajan born?

Answer 3

Italica, Hispania (modern-day Spain).

Question 4

Which Roman emperor adopted Trajan as his successor?

Answer 4

Emperor Nerva.

Question 5

What military campaigns is Trajan most famous for?

Answer 5

The Dacian Wars and the Parthian Campaign.

Question 6

What did Trajan conquer during the Dacian Wars?

Answer 6

Dacia, which is modern-day Romania.

Question 7

Name one of Trajan’s major architectural contributions in Rome.

Answer 7

Trajan’s Forum or Trajan’s Column.

Question 8

What social program did Trajan implement to aid poor children?

Answer 8

The alimenta, a welfare program providing food and financial aid.

Question 9

Which title did the Roman Senate bestow on Trajan?

Answer 9

Optimus Princeps (the best ruler).

Question 10

During Trajan’s reign, what was the Roman Empire known for?

Answer 10

Its greatest territorial extent and prosperity.

Question 11

How did Trajan’s military campaigns impact the Roman Empire?

Answer 11

He expanded Roman territories, bringing in wealth and securing borders.

Question 12

Name a region Trajan conquered in the East.

Answer 12

Mesopotamia (modern-day Iraq).

Question 13

What did Trajan die from?

Answer 13

He died of health issues in 117 CE, likely from a stroke.

Question 14

Which emperor succeeded Trajan?

Answer 14

Hadrian.

Question 15

How did Trajan’s building projects influence Rome?

Answer 15

They transformed Rome into a grand imperial city with enduring monuments.

Question 16

What is depicted on Trajan’s Column?

Answer 16

A spiral relief showing scenes from Trajan’s Dacian Wars.

Question 17

What was the purpose of the alimenta program?

Answer 17

To provide financial and food assistance to poor children in Italy.

Question 18

Why was Trajan considered one of the ‘Five Good Emperors’?

Answer 18

Due to his effective governance, military success, and social welfare reforms.

Question 19

What was unique about Trajan’s birthplace compared to earlier emperors?

Answer 19

He was the first Roman emperor born outside Italy.

Question 20

Which ancient Roman writer was a close friend and admirer of Trajan?

Answer 20

Pliny the Younger.

Question 21

Which neighboring empire did Trajan lead campaigns against towards the end of his reign?

Answer 21

The Parthian Empire.

Question 22

How is Trajan remembered in history?

Answer 22

As one of Rome’s greatest emperors, celebrated for military conquests and public works.

Question 23

Why did Trajan’s Eastern Campaigns cause controversy?

Answer 23

They overstretched Roman resources and were largely abandoned after his death.

Question 24

What nickname did the Senate give Trajan?

Answer 24

Optimus Princeps, meaning the best ruler.

Question 25

Which of Trajan’s habits was considered unusual for a Roman emperor?

Answer 25

His fondness for cervisia (beer), a drink typically associated with ‘barbarians.’