Following the passing of Emperor Titus Flavius, Domitian Flavius, his younger brother, ascended to the imperial throne of Rome. Titus, known for his handling of disasters such as the eruption of Mount Vesuvius, left a legacy that Domitian sought to build upon, but his approach to governance vastly differed. Domitian's reign, beginning immediately after Titus's death, marked a shift towards more authoritarian rule and a focus on personal power rather than senatorial authority.

Domitian's reign is often remembered for both his ambitious building projects, including the expansion of the Roman Forum and the construction of the Arch of Titus, celebrating military victories, and his efforts to strengthen the economy through various reforms. However, his methods included brutal reprisals against perceived enemies and an increased reliance on informants, instilling a climate of fear among the elite. Domitian’s focus on loyalty led to a series of executions and exiles to ensure control over the political landscape. This atmosphere eroded the traditional power of the Senate, leading to discontent among the upper echelons of Roman society.

Domitian's tenure also included various military campaigns aimed at expanding the Empire's territories, particularly against tribes in Britain and Dacia. His aggressive policies led to fluctuating fortunes on the battlefield, contributing to both military successes and failures. His rule fundamentally transformed the imperial governance, emphasizing a more autocratic approach that would influence subsequent emperors and the broader trajectory of Roman politics.