Domitian

Domitian (51–96), younger son of Vespasian, was the last Flavian emperor and ruled Rome from 81 to 96. In the civil war of 69 he escaped the Capitol, where his uncle Sabinus was executed, disguised as an Isis worshipper; under his father and brother Titus he held honours but no real power, and the Praetorian Guard proclaimed him on Titus’ death.

He revalued the coinage, strengthened frontiers and rebuilt Rome; Agricola pushed into Caledonia, but wars against Dacian king Decebalus brought no decisive victory. He ran government himself and quarrelled with the Senate, whose powers he cut.

On 18 September 96 officials killed him: Stephanus, hiding a dagger under a bandage for days, stabbed him as he read a document, while a servant lied that the midday he feared had passed. The Senate proclaimed Nerva and condemned his memory, though a 1992 study calls him a ruthless, efficient autocrat.