Trajan's rise to power followed the peaceful transition from his adoptive father, Nerva, who had implemented various reforms aimed at restoring stability and goodwill within the Roman Empire after a series of tumultuous reigns. Nerva, recognizing the need for strength and military prowess in leadership, adopted Trajan, a general respected for his success in various military campaigns, particularly in the provinces of Germania. On this pivotal day, the Senate endorsed Trajan, marking a significant acknowledgment of his capability to lead Rome.

Following Nerva's death, Trajan's reign was characterized by both military and administrative advancements. He expanded the Empire significantly, especially through wars in Dacia, leading to the acquisition of vast resources and wealth. His military campaigns were coupled with a dedication to infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and public buildings, which underpinned his reputation as a benevolent leader. Trajan's commitment to the welfare of the citizens of Rome was evident through his policies aimed at enhancing social welfare and urban development.

Trajan’s efforts not only reinforced the military might of the Empire but also established a model of governance that balanced military conquest with civic responsibility. His reign is often viewed as the apex of the Roman Empire's prosperity. The successful succession from Nerva to Trajan also set a precedent for future emperors, solidifying the concept of adoptive succession as a strategy for stability, particularly evident during the Five Good Emperors period.