Ancient Roman Soldier’s Mysterious Bronze Wrist Purse Discovered in Czech Republic Sparks Fascinating Secrets
Wikimedia CommonsThe death of Marcus Aurelius in 180 C.E.
Those plans changed during the second phase of the war. As Roman legions devastated the Quadi and Iazyges, deposed tribal kings, and exacted heavy terms, Marcus Aurelius met his own tragic end in 180 C.E. — of natural causes, though, and not by his son’s hand, as depicted in the popular 2000 film Gladiator.
His son Commodus soon ascended to the imperial throne — and made a controversial decision: He abruptly ended his father’s campaigns, negotiated peace with the tribes, and returned to Rome.
Wikimedia CommonsCommodus leaving the Coliseum.
But while Commodus may have secured peace in the short term, his decision ultimately contributed to subsequent instability at the frontier and within Rome, as his mismanagement deepened civil unrest and diminished faith in the imperial leadership. His generals had urged him to continue the campaign, but it was clear that the new emperor had little interest in this pursuit.
It wasn’t long before the true incompetence of the new emperor came to light. Commodus eventually descended into madness, ruling like a mad dictator driven by lust and ego, even going so far as to rename months and cities after himself. It’s little wonder why so many plotted his death, and why he is widely thought of as one of the worst Roman emperors to ever rule.
After reading about this piece of Roman history found in the Czech Republic, read about the Roman military tactic of decimation. Then, read the stories of 11 fearsome gladiators from ancient Rome.
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