list of roman emperors in order

2025 Vertis

3 min read 17-12-2024

The Roman Empire, a civilization that shaped Western culture for centuries, was ruled by a succession of emperors. This list details the Roman Emperors, organized chronologically, from the founding of the Roman Empire to its eventual fall. Understanding this lineage provides crucial context to the political, social, and military events that defined this influential period in history.

The Julio-Claudian Dynasty (27 BC – 68 AD)

This period marks the transition from the Roman Republic to the Empire, establishing the imperial system and laying the foundations for future dynasties.

Augustus (27 BC – 14 AD): The first Roman Emperor, Octavian, adopted the title Augustus, establishing the Principate. His reign brought relative peace and prosperity known as the Pax Romana. He skillfully consolidated power after years of civil war.
Tiberius (14 – 37 AD): Augustus's successor, Tiberius, is often remembered for his suspicious nature and seclusion. His reign saw the beginning of increased political instability.
Caligula (37 – 41 AD): Caligula's short and infamous reign is characterized by alleged madness and tyranny. Historical accounts paint a picture of erratic behavior and cruel decisions. Many sources are biased, though.
Claudius (41 – 54 AD): Claudius, unexpectedly elevated to the throne, proved to be a capable administrator. His reign saw significant legal and infrastructure improvements.
Nero (54 – 68 AD): Nero's reign marked by extravagance, persecution, and ultimately, his own demise. His alleged involvement in the Great Fire of Rome further tarnished his reputation.

The Year of the Four Emperors (69 AD)

Following Nero's suicide, a period of intense civil war erupted, known as the Year of the Four Emperors:

Galba (68 – 69 AD): A brief and tumultuous reign, ending with Galba's assassination.
Otho (69 AD): Otho's rule was even shorter, culminating in his defeat and suicide.
Vitellius (69 AD): Vitellius's claim to power was also short-lived, ending with his assassination.
Vespasian (69 – 79 AD): Vespasian, emerging victorious from the chaos, founded the Flavian dynasty.

The Flavian Dynasty (69 – 96 AD)

This dynasty brought stability after the tumultuous Year of the Four Emperors.

Vespasian (69 – 79 AD): Known for his pragmatic approach and building projects, including the Colosseum.
Titus (79 – 81 AD): Titus's reign was marked by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius and the subsequent destruction of Pompeii and Herculaneum. He is also remembered for his generosity and compassion.
Domitian (81 – 96 AD): Domitian's reign was characterized by autocratic rule and eventually led to his assassination.

The Nerva-Antonine Dynasty (96 – 192 AD)

This period is often considered the high point of the Roman Empire, known as the Pax Romana's zenith.

Nerva (96 – 98 AD): Nerva, an older emperor, adopted Trajan to secure the succession.
Trajan (98 – 117 AD): Trajan was a highly successful military leader, expanding the Roman Empire to its greatest territorial extent. His reign is considered a golden age.
Hadrian (117 – 138 AD): Hadrian consolidated the empire's borders, focusing on internal improvements and administration. He constructed Hadrian's Wall in Britannia.
Antoninus Pius (138 – 161 AD): Antoninus Pius maintained peace and stability, focusing on good governance and justice. His reign is known for its tranquility.
Marcus Aurelius (161 – 180 AD): A philosopher-king, Marcus Aurelius faced numerous challenges, including the Marcomannic Wars. His writings, Meditations, remain influential.
Commodus (180 – 192 AD): Commodus's reign marked the decline of the Nerva-Antonine dynasty, characterized by extravagance and tyranny, ending with his assassination.

The Severan Dynasty and the Crisis of the Third Century (193 – 284 AD)

This era was marked by significant political instability and frequent changes in power. A detailed listing of every emperor during this period would be extensive, but key figures include:

Septimius Severus (193 – 211 AD): The founder of the Severan dynasty, establishing a new line of emperors.
Caracalla (211 – 217 AD): Known for his cruelty and the granting of Roman citizenship to all free men within the Empire.
Elagabalus (218 – 222 AD): His reign was controversial and brief, marked by religious innovations and extravagance.
Severus Alexander (222 – 235 AD): His attempts at reform were unsuccessful amid growing instability.

The Crisis of the Third Century was a period of intense civil war, economic disruption, and barbarian invasions. Numerous emperors rose and fell during this chaotic era.

The Later Roman Empire (284 AD Onwards)

The empire was eventually divided, leading to separate Eastern and Western Roman Empires. Listing all subsequent emperors would extend this article considerably. However, some notable figures include:

Diocletian (284 – 305 AD): Diocletian instituted significant reforms, including the Tetrarchy, a system of four co-rulers to maintain stability.
Constantine the Great (306 – 337 AD): Constantine legalized Christianity and moved the capital to Constantinople (modern-day Istanbul).
Theodosius I (379 – 395 AD): Theodosius I made Christianity the official religion of the Roman Empire. This marks a pivotal point in the relationship between the state and religion.

The Western Roman Empire officially fell in 476 AD, while the Eastern Roman Empire (Byzantine Empire) continued for many centuries. This list provides a framework for understanding the vast and complex history of Roman emperors. Further research into specific reigns is highly recommended for a more complete understanding. Many excellent historical resources are available for further exploration.