Titus

INC-1601-a Ауреус Тит цезарь ок. 75 г. (аверс)

Titus, Roman, c. 70 AD, marble - Galleria Borghese - Rome, Italy - DSC04762

First century Iudaea province

Roman Empire 69

04 2022 Roma (Arco di Trionfo di Tito- Bassorilievi) FO228683 bis Photo by Paolo Villa

04 2022 Roma (Arco di Trionfo di Tito- Bassorilievi) FO228685 bis Photo by Paolo Villa

Titus (Titus Flavius Vespasianus; 30 December AD 39 – 13 September AD 81) was Roman Emperor from 79 to 81. A member of the Flavian dynasty, Titus succeeded his father Vespasian upon his death, thus becoming the first Roman Emperor to come to the throne after his own father. Prior to becoming emperor, Titus gained renown as a military commander, serving in the Judean war where he commanded the Roman legions that besieged and destroyed Jerusalem in AD 70, an event chronicled in detail by the historian Josephus in The Jewish War. His two-year reign was marked by several significant events in Roman history, including the completion and official opening of the Colosseum (also known as the Flavian Amphitheatre), and the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79, which led to the destruction of the cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum.

Early Life

Titus was born in Rome on 30 December AD 39, the eldest son of Vespasian and Flavia Domitilla. He was educated in the Roman court and showed early signs of his military capability and a keen interest in Roman law. Titus served in the military campaigns in Germany and Britain, earning accolades for his bravery and leadership.

Military Campaigns

Titus's most notable military achievement came during the Judean War, where he was appointed by his father to finish the military campaign. The siege of Jerusalem in AD 70 was a decisive event, leading to the city's capture and the destruction of the Second Temple, a pivotal moment in Jewish history.

Reign as Emperor

Upon Vespasian's death in AD 79, Titus assumed the role of emperor. His reign, though short, was marked by significant achievements. The completion of the Colosseum, a project started by his father, was one of his most notable contributions to Rome. The amphitheater was used for gladiatorial contests and public spectacles. Titus also initiated several building projects and implemented measures to relieve the suffering caused by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius.

Death and Succession

Titus died of a fever on 13 September AD 81 after a brief reign of two years. He was succeeded by his younger brother, Domitian, who was the last ruler of the Flavian dynasty. Titus's death marked the end of a relatively peaceful and prosperous period for the Roman Empire. Despite his short reign, Titus was remembered favorably by the Roman people and historians, often being referred to as the darling of the human race (amor ac deliciae generis humani).

Legacy

Titus's legacy is a complex one. While his military conquests, particularly the siege of Jerusalem, were celebrated in Rome, they also led to significant suffering and displacement for the Jewish people. His reign as emperor, however, was marked by efforts to improve the welfare of his people, showcasing his capacity for empathy and governance. The Colosseum remains one of the most enduring symbols of Roman architectural and engineering prowess, a testament to the Flavian dynasty's contributions to Roman society.

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