TWO ROMAN REVOLUTIONS: The Senate, the Emperors and Power, from Commodus to Gallienus (AD 180-260)

1-243720

Offers a new perspective on the Roman Empire during the events of 69AD, as the shift of power marked the end of real senatorial power, and the empire as an autocracy was finally established. Looks at how the assassination of Emperor Commodus and the success of Septimus Severus set up a continuous tension within the government between imperial and senatorial powers and authority. The weakness of the imperial power produced an increase in warfare on all frontiers, from Syria to Britannia. The years that followed saw a sway of power, thanks to constant assassinations and then recovery of leadership. Explores how that control was constantly in flux. Contains 16 mono illustrations.