Did the Julio-Claudian dynasty really deserve the black reputation they so infamously earned? Augustus, despite not having direct relations with the Julio-Claudians, is known throughout history as being Rome’s first emperor. He took to great pains to avoid being regarded a ‘sole ruler’ as such, but considering his vast influence and many great achievements, it can be hard to disprove the fact. Following his legacy were Tiberius, Caligula, Claudius and finally Nero, who proved to be increasingly unpopular following the exemplary rule of Augustus. What each emperor of the Julio-Claudian dynasty held in common was their inability to serve to the wants and needs of the empire which they ruled; each giving in to temptation, instilling a large …show more content…
As a result, the Julio-Claudians employed marriage-alliances and adoption with other noble families in order to secure a suitable heir. To be considered for the role of emperor, a man had to have significant managerial and manipulative abilities. It was also preferable for them to be on the Julian family side. However, Augustus did not bear a son, but instead a daughter, Julia. Augustus used Julia to secure an heir by arranging her marriages. After his reign, Augustus had conferred his power to his adopted son, …show more content…
Rodgers recalls the moments when Caligula ascended to the status of emperor: “When Augustus’ great-grandson Gaius Cligula succeeded Tiberius in March AD37, Rome was jubilant” (source D). Unfortunately, Caligula is became most associated with his inexplicable acts of lunacy. It is widely suggested by modern historians that a rapid alteration in his mental health took place as a result of some form of mental disorder, namely schizophrenia. Regardless of this, he was still recognised as having moments of good-naturedness and open-heartedness. The nickname he earned as a child, ‘little boots’ since stuck with him his whole life, and it became the name Rome knew him by, further adding to the credibility of his