Biography of Emperor Trajan

Biography of Emperor Trajan

Born on September 15, 53 CE in Italica, Baetica (now in Spain), Trajan passed away on August 8 or 9, 117 CE in Selinus, Cilicia (now in Turkey). During his reign, which lasted from 98 to 117 CE, Trajan expanded social welfare, built a massive building program, and attempted to expand the empire’s borders to the east, particularly in Dacia, Arabia, Armenia, and Mesopotamia.

Biography of Emperor Trajan

One of the best emperors in Roman history is regarded as Trajan. He governed from 98 AD to 117 AD, a period of nineteen years. He expanded the Roman Empire to its greatest extent in history by subjugating numerous nations. Rome experienced immense wealth during his reign.

Where did Trajan grow up?

The modern-day nation of Spain was the Roman province of Hispania, where Trajan was born. Leading Roman statesman and general was his father. His mother was sprung from a well-known Roman family. Though nothing is known about Trajan’s early years, it is likely that he was raised in several parts of the Roman Empire. He traveled to Rome and Spain at different times.

Early Career

Trajan enlisted in the Roman army, just like his father had done. Being a talented leader, he advanced quickly. He distinguished himself in service across the Roman Empire, notably in Syria. After entering politics, Trajan was chosen as praetor and later as consul. He was also made general of an entire Roman legion.

Becoming Emperor

Trajan received a letter from Emperor Nerva while he was the ruler of Upper Germany. He would be the heir apparent to Nerva and would be adopted as such. In Rome, it was customary for an emperor who was without sons to adopt an adult son as his heir. Nerva chose Trajan because the troops liked him.

Nerva passed away in 98 AD, making Trajan the new emperor. Trajan visited the Roman legions to confirm he had the army’s backing before making his way back to Rome. A year later, he at last made his way back to Rome, where the senate and populace welcomed him as the new emperor.

Expanding the Empire

Trajan was sometimes referred to as a “soldier-emperor” since he had served in the military for a large portion of his life. He desired to extend the Roman Empire and loved fighting. Dacia, the modern-day Romania, was the kingdom he conquered first. With its gold mines, Dacia became to be a significant Roman province and a source of wealth for Rome. His second great victory was over the Asian kingdom of Parthia. He listed Mesopotamia and Armenia as two more Roman provinces in Asia.

Building

Throughout the Roman Empire, Trajan also oversaw the construction of numerous public works. These construction projects comprised roads, public buildings, canals, bridges, aqueducts, and baths. Additionally, he had Trajan’s Forum in Rome constructed.

Death

While on a campaign in the Middle East, Trajan became ill. While returning to Rome, he passed away in Cilicia. Hadrian, his adoptive son, succeeded him.

Legacy

The Roman Senate regarded Trajan as one of the greatest rulers. Following his demise, the proverb “be luckier than Augustus and better than Trajan” was used to greet incoming emperors.

Facts About Roman Emperor Trajan

• He was the thirteenth Roman Emperor and the second of the Five Good Emperors.
• His birth name was Marcus Ulpius Traianus.
• Trajan’s Bridge over the Danube River was the longest arch bridge in the world for over 1000 years.
• Trajan helped the poor through a welfare program called the Alimenta.
• Trajan’s column still stands in modern-day Rome. Trajan had it built to commemorate his victory over Dacia.

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