AI Snips
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Episode notes
The Praetorian Guard's Hubris
- The Praetorian Guard murdered Emperor Pertinax and replaced him with Didius Julianus, who promised them a large sum of money.
- Their hubris led them to overlook the fact that Julianus's claim to the throne was weak, unlike Commodus's, which sparked widespread revolt.
The Rise of Three Contenders
- Three governors, Claudius Albinus, Septimius Severus, and Pescennius Niger, refused to recognize Julianus as emperor.
- Each declared their intent to avenge Pertinax and restore the empire's dignity, setting the stage for a civil war.
Julianus's Desperation and Severus's Advance
- Julianus, despite his weak claim, refused to give up the throne and focused on neutralizing the immediate threat of Septimius Severus.
- Severus marched his troops rapidly towards Rome, aiming to seize control before his rivals.