Praetorian Guards Sell Throne to Didius Julianus
March 28th, 193
March 28th, 193
How Long Ago?
1831 years, 11 months, 15 days ago
Location
Rome, Italy
Category
Politics & Government
People
- Pertinax
- Didius Julianus
- Praetorian Guards
Links & References
Tags
Praetorian Guards Sell Throne to Didius Julianus
The Praetorian Guards auctioned the Roman throne after killing Emperor Pertinax, leading to a bidding war. Didius Julianus won the bid, offering the highest amount to the guards, effectively purchasing the imperial title amid chaos and power struggles within Rome.
Pertinax was assassinated by his guards.
The throne was sold to the highest bidder.
Didius Julianus outbid rivals for the title.
This marked a shift in imperial power dynamics.
What Happened?
After the assassination of Roman Emperor Pertinax by his own Praetorian Guards, a unique and unprecedented situation unfolded in the heart of Rome. The guards, upset over failed promises of bonuses and fearing the transition of power, decided to auction off the throne to the highest bidder. In a move that shocked the Roman populace, the guards set up an auction in the Roman Forum, a public space symbolizing civic life. Among the bidders was Didius Julianus, a wealthy senator and former proconsul. He recognized the opportunity to seize control amidst the disorder, and by offering an astonishing sum of money, he outbid his rivals and secured the title of Emperor, thus igniting a political crisis that would reverberate through subsequent years. This event marked a significant turning point within the history of the Roman Empire, illustrating the corruption and instability that characterized the Severan dynasty's rise to power.
Why Does it Matter?
The auctioning of the Roman throne is significant as it illustrates the severe degradation of political norms and the increasing role of money in Roman politics during the Empire's decline. It is interesting because it highlights how desperate circumstances could lead to a complete disregard for traditional processes of succession, paving the way for future political chaos and instability as rival factions emerged in subsequent power struggles.
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