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Marcus Aurelius
Historical Figures
Marcus Aurelius
The Roman Emperor who wrote Meditations during a period of civil war and personal turmoil.
Born
121
Died
180
Nationality
Roman
Profession
Emperor
Life Journey & Timeline
Explore 9 key moments that shaped Marcus Aurelius's extraordinary life and lasting legacy.
121
121-04-26
Birth
Born in Rome
•Age 0•Rome, Italy
Marcus Aurelius was born into a wealthy and influential Roman family. His birth name was Marcus Annius Verus, and he was the son of Marcus Annius Verus and Domitia Lucilla.
136
Milestone
Adopted by Emperor Hadrian
•Age 15•Rome, Italy
Hadrian, impressed by Marcus's character and intelligence, adopted him as his heir. This adoption secured Marcus's future as a member of the imperial family and set him on the path to the throne.
138
Milestone
Adopted by Antoninus Pius
•Age 17•Rome, Italy
Upon Hadrian's death, Antoninus Pius became emperor and adopted Marcus and Lucius Verus as his heirs. This further solidified Marcus's position in the line of succession.
140
Personal
Marriage to Faustina the Younger
•Age 19•Rome, Italy
Marcus married Faustina the Younger, the daughter of Antoninus Pius. This political marriage strengthened his ties to the imperial family and produced several children.
161
Career
Becomes Co-Emperor with Lucius Verus
•Age 40•Rome, Italy
Following the death of Antoninus Pius, Marcus Aurelius and Lucius Verus became co-emperors of Rome. This arrangement was designed to balance power and manage the vast empire effectively.
169
Achievement
Victory in the Marcomannic Wars
•Age 48•Danube Frontier, Roman Empire
Marcus Aurelius led the Roman army to victory against the Germanic tribes in the Marcomannic Wars. His military leadership and strategic acumen were crucial in securing the empire's northern borders.
175
Achievement
Quelling the Avidius Cassius Rebellion
•Age 54•Roman Empire
Marcus Aurelius successfully quelled a rebellion led by Avidius Cassius, a general who declared himself emperor in the eastern provinces. This crisis tested Marcus's leadership and political skills.
177
Milestone
Designates Son Commodus as Co-Emperor
•Age 56•Rome, Italy
Marcus Aurelius designated his son Commodus as co-emperor, ensuring a smooth transition of power and continuity of the imperial line. This decision was met with mixed reactions among the Roman elite.
180
Death
Death in Vindobona
•Age 59•Vindobona, Roman Empire
Marcus Aurelius died while on campaign in Vindobona (modern-day Vienna). His death marked the end of the Pax Romana and the beginning of a more turbulent period in Roman history.
Major Achievements
Discover the groundbreaking contributions that made Marcus Aurelius a legendary figure.
1
Meditations
2
Stoic Philosophy
3
Roman Empire's Golden Age
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Cultural & Historical Context
Roman-Greek
Personality Traits
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WiseReflective Stoic