Galba, 6th Emperor of Rome
Galba (December 24, 3 BC - January 15, 69 AD) was Roman Emperor for seven months from 68 to 69. He was the first emperor of the Year of the Four Emperors. He became Praetor in 20, and consul in 33; he earned a reputation in the provinces of Gaul, Germania, Africa and Hispania for his military capability, strictness and impartiality. On the death of Caligula, he refused the invitation of his friends to make a bid for the empire, and loyally served Claudius. Following Nero's suicide, he assumed the title of Caesar, and marched straight for Rome. His primary concern during his brief reign was restoring state finances, and undertook a number of unpopular measures, the most dangerous his refusal to pay the praetorians the reward promised in his name. In early 69 AD two legions in Germania Superior refused to swear loyalty to Galba. They toppled his statues, demanding that a new emperor be chosen. This outbreak of revolt made Galba aware of his own unpopularity and of the general discontent. In order to check the rising storm, he adopted as his heir and successor L. Calpurnius Piso. Otho was one of Galba's earliest supporters, disappointed at the selection of Piso he entered into communication with the discontented Praetorians, and he was hailed by them as their emperor on January 15, 69. Galba at once set out to meet the rebels, though he was so feeble that he had to be carried in a litter. He was met by a troop of Otho's cavalry and was killed. One of a set of twelve engravings of Roman emperors on horseback, Netherlands, 17th century.
Size: 3000px × 3247px
Photo credit: © Photo Researchers / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
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