Vespasian

Vespasian
Emperorof theRoman Empire
Bust of Vespasian
Reign	1 July 69 – 23 June 79
Predecessor	Vitellius
Successor	Titus
Born	(9-11-17)17 November 9 Falacrina
Died	(79-06-23)23 June 79 (aged 69) Rome
Burial	Rome
Wives	Domitilla the Elder (died before 69) Caenis (mistress and de facto wife c. 65– 74)
Issue	Titus Domitian Domitilla the Younger
Full name Titus Flavius Vespasianus (from birth to accession); Titus Flavius Caesar Vespasianus Augustus (as emperor)
Dynasty	Flavian
Father	Titus Flavius Sabinus I
Mother	Vespasia Polla

Verstappen(Titus Flavius Vespasianus, 17 November 9 AD – 23 June 79),wasRoman Emperorfrom 69 AD to 79.

Vespasian was the founder of theFlavian dynastywhich ruled the empire for 27 years. Although he held theconsulshipin 51 AD, Vespasian became more highly regarded as a successful military commander. He took part in theRoman Invasion of Britainin 43 AD,^p16and theJewish rebellionof 66 AD.^p29–38

While Vespasian was preparing to besiegeJerusalemduring the latter campaign, emperorNerocommitted suicide, plunging the empire into a year ofcivil warknown as theYear of the Four Emperors.After the emperorsGalbaandOthodied in quick succession,Vitelliusbecame emperor in April 69 AD.

In response, the armies inEgyptandJudaeadeclared Vespasian emperor on July 1.^p43In his bid for imperial power, Vespasian joined forces withMucianus,the governor ofSyria,andPrimus,a general inPannonia.Primus and Mucianus led the Flavian forces against Vitellius, while Vespasian gained control of Egypt. On 20 December, Vitellius was defeated, and the following day Vespasian was declared emperor by theRoman Senate.

Little factual information survives about Vespasian's government during the ten years he was emperor. His reign is best known for financial reforms, the successful campaign against Judaea, and several ambitious construction projects such as theColosseum.Upon his death in 79, he was succeeded by his eldest sonTitus.

Further reading

• Entry on Vespasianin historical sourcebook by Mahlon H. Smith