The History of Rome

Vespasian served as Emperor from 69-79 AD, stabilizing the Empire after a year of Civil War.

Vitellius's reign was underminned by internal squabbling, allowing Vespasian's army to sieze Rome in December 69 AD.

After murdering Galba, Otho ascended to the throne in January 69 AD. He immediately had to deal with Vitellius revolt and after suffering a defeat at Bedriacum in April, Otho committed suicide having served as Emperor for just three months

Galba's refusal to pay off the Praetorian Guard came back to haunt him when Otho looked for accomplices to aid in his assassination plot early in 69 AD.

Marriage was one of the key institutions of Roman culture and many of the traditions surrounding weddings persist today.

The personalities of each of the men who vied for the throne in 69 AD had a major impact on how events unfolded.

This podcast explores the Great Revolt in Judaea and Nero's appointment of Vespasian to crush the uprising. It delves into Nero's tumultuous relationship with Poppaea and his descent into madness. The chapter also discusses Vespasian's early life and rise to power, as well as Nero's erratic behavior and desperate attempt to escape.

Nero's popularity with the people began to wane in the early 60s AD. Things got so bad that after the Great Fire of Rome swept through the city, many held Nero responsible.

Between 58 and 63 AD Rome dealt with a major conflict over the Kingdom of Armenia and a revolt in Britain led by the warrior Queen Boudica.

After Nero became Emperor of Rome, he grew tired of his mother Agrippina's influence. The podcast explores Nero's rise to power, tensions and betrayals among his advisors, his unconventional interests, including the persecution of early Christians, and his love for music, cruelty, and matricide.