Commodus Becomes Sole Emperor of Rome

March 17th, 180

March 17th, 180

Commodus Becomes Sole Emperor of Rome
How Long Ago?

1844 years, 11 months, 26 days ago

Location

Rome, Italy

Category

Politics & Government

People
  • Commodus
  • Marcus Aurelius
  • Faustina the Younger
Links & References
Tags

Commodus Becomes Sole Emperor of Rome

Commodus succeeded his father, Marcus Aurelius, as the sole emperor of the Roman Empire at just eighteen years old. His ascension marked a significant transition in leadership, shifting from the philosophical governance of his father to a reign that would be characterized by excess and unpredictability. Commodus's early reign focused on consolidating power and establishing his authority, but he also embraced the extravagant lifestyle of a Roman emperor, leading to a controversial legacy.

Commodus was only 18 when he became emperor.

He was the son of the philosopher-king Marcus Aurelius.

His reign is marked by a focus on personal pleasures.

Commodus participated in gladiatorial combats.

What Happened?

Commodus was born on August 31, 161, to Marcus Aurelius and his wife, Faustina the Younger. Growing up, he was groomed for leadership in the ever-expanding Roman Empire. Following his father's death, a pivotal moment in Roman history occurred as Commodus, still a teenager at eighteen, took the throne. This ascent was notable as Marcus Aurelius was not just any emperor; he was renowned for his Stoic philosophy and leadership during challenging times. The transition from Marcus, who ideologically upheld the principles of duty and virtue, to Commodus, who favored personal pleasure and spectacle, was jarring for the empire.Commodus’s reign began with promise, but it quickly devolved into a more autocratic style of leadership. He was fascinated with gladiatorial games and would participate in combats, an unusual practice for an emperor. Commodus also sought legitimacy through a series of public displays, often portraying himself as the reincarnation of Hercules. His reign saw increased reliance on the military, the decline of senatorial power, and growing discontent among Roman elites. As tensions rose, his actions would sow the seeds of instability that would challenge the cohesion of the empire. This misalignment between his personal extravagance and the Roman ideals led to significant unrest among the aristocracy.

Why Does it Matter?

Commodus's ascendance marked the beginning of a period often referred to as the Crisis of the Third Century, which would ultimately lead to significant transformations within the Roman Empire. His governance style and prioritization of personal interest over public duty contributed to political corruption and economic instability. Commodus's actions prompted more military-based emperors, changing the traditional structure of Roman governance and leading to a reevaluation of the role of an emperor in Roman society. This phase of instability would create power vacuums and generate subsequent leadership issues, influencing Rome's trajectory for centuries to come.

Discover More Historic Events from March 17th

Politics & Government

Establishment of Democratic Federation in Northern Syria

March 17th, 2016 8 years ago

At a conference in Rmelan, the Movement for a Democratic Society announced the establishment of the Democratic Federation of Northern Syria. This declaration aimed to create a self-governed region in Northern Syria, promoting democratic governance, gender equality, and ethnic pluralism, as a response to the conflicts in the region and to assert autonomy against external governance. The federation is characterized by its unique model of local governance that seeks to empower communities and foster cooperation among different ethnic and religious groups, underscoring a commitment to democracy and social justice.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Ethnic Violence Erupts in Kosovo Region

March 17th, 2004 20 years ago

In March 2004, significant unrest occurred in Kosovo leading to the deaths of over 22 individuals and wounding around 200. The violence was primarily between ethnic Albanian and Serb communities. A notable incident involved the destruction of 35 Serbian Orthodox shrines in Kosovo and two mosques in Serbia as tensions escalated. This upheaval was fueled by underlying ethnic tensions and grievances stemming from the Kosovo War and the ongoing political situation in the region, impacting both communities profoundly.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Robin Cook Resigns Over Iraq War Plans

March 17th, 2003 21 years ago

Robin Cook, Leader of the House of Commons and Lord President of the Council, resigned from the British Cabinet in opposition to the government’s approach towards the impending invasion of Iraq, which was planned under the leadership of Prime Minister Tony Blair. Cook expressed concerns about the legality and morality of military action without a United Nations mandate, emphasizing the need for diplomatic solutions. His resignation was a significant political statement, reflecting deep divisions within the government regarding the Iraq conflict and resonating with public sentiment against the war.

Continue Reading
Religion & Philosophy

Mass Death in Ugandan Cult Fire

March 17th, 2000 24 years ago

A fire engulfed the compound of the Movement for the Restoration of the Ten Commandments of God in Uganda, killing around 530 members. This occurred in the town of Kanungu, where cult leaders were suspected of coercing members into a mass suicide or mass murder. Meanwhile, 248 more bodies were discovered later, further alarming authorities. The incident raised questions about the influence of religious sects in Uganda and the safety of their followers.

Continue Reading
Crime & Law

Car Bomb Attack on Israeli Embassy in Argentina

March 17th, 1992 32 years ago

A devastating car bomb exploded outside the Israeli embassy in Buenos Aires, claiming the lives of 29 individuals and injuring 242 others. The attack occurred during daylight hours, targeting the embassy which was a significant diplomatic site. Security concerns had escalated in the years prior, fueled by regional tensions and the activities of militant groups. Investigators suspected involvement of foreign terrorist organizations, raising alarms about international terrorism on Argentine soil.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Referendum Passes to End Apartheid

March 17th, 1992 32 years ago

A referendum resulted in 68.7% voting to end apartheid in South Africa. The 3.2 million voters overwhelmingly supported a new democratic constitution, paving the way for a collaborative government that transcended racial divides. This was a significant step toward dismantling the racially discriminatory system that had structured South African society for decades, marking a hopeful turning point for millions.

Continue Reading