Hadrian

Publius Aelius Traianus Hadrianus (January 24 76-July 10 138), known as Hadrian in English, was Roman emperor from 117-138, and a member of the gens Aelia. Hadrian was the third of the "Five Good Emperors". However, he was, according to Elizabeth Speller, the first Emperor whose assessment moved beyond the stereotype of good and bad emperors. His reign has a faltering beginning, a glorious middle but a tragic conclusion{{ref|3phase}}.

Related Topics:
January 24 - 76 - July 10 - 138 - English - Roman - Emperor - 117 - Gens - Aelia - Five Good Emperors - Elizabeth Speller

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Hadrian was born in Italica, Baetica (originally Hispania Ulterior), to a well-established settler family which had originated in Picenum in Italy. He was a distant relative by marriage of his predecessor Trajan. Trajan never officially designated a successor, but, according to his wife, Trajan named Hadrian emperor immediately before his death. However, Trajan's wife was well-disposed toward Hadrian, and he may well have owed his succession to her.

Related Topics:
Italica - Baetica - Hispania - Picenum - Italy - Trajan

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