After the assassination of Emperor Galba, Marcus Otho, a former governor of Lusitania and one-time ally of Nero, took advantage of the power vacuum in Rome. Otho was initially a contender for power in the turbulent Year of the Four Emperors, a period marked by rapid fluctuations in leadership and authority, following Nero’s downfall. With significant backing from the Praetorian Guard, he staged a coup against Galba. On January 15, Otho entered the Forum, donned the imperial regalia, and had himself proclaimed Emperor. His rise was facilitated by promises to pay the troops as a means to secure their loyalty and quell dissent, as Galba had alienated many of them through unpopular decisions. Otho's claim to the throne was met with mixed reactions; he had supporters who sought stability after Galba's tumultuous rule, but he also faced immediate opposition. He took to addressing the Senate promptly, attempting to legitimize his rule and establish his authority, though he faced challenges from rival claimants like Vitellius, who was backed by significant military forces. Otho's reign ultimately ended in April, when he was defeated at the Battle of Bedriacum, leading to his suicide, which cemented the chaotic succession battles of the year.