Nerva

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Nerva was Roman Emperor from 96 to 98 AD, reigning at the age of sixty-five after serving the empire for decades under Nero and the Flavian dynasty. As a trusted member of Nero's entourage, he played a crucial role in exposing the Pisonian conspiracy of 65 AD. Later, as a loyal supporter of the Flavians, Nerva held consulships in 71 and 90 during Vespasian's and Domitian's reigns respectively. Domitian's assassination on September 18, 96, sparked a palace coup involving members of the Praetorian Guard and several of his freedmen. On the same day, the Roman Senate elected Nerva as the new Emperor, marking the first time the Senate had chosen a ruler for the empire. As Nerva vowed to restore liberties lost under Domitian's autocratic rule. Nerva's brief tenure was marred by financial struggles and his inability to assert control over the Roman army. The Praetorian Guard revolted in October 97, forcing Nerva to adopt an heir. After careful consideration, he chose Trajan, a young and respected general, as his successor. Just fifteen months into his reign, Nerva died of natural causes on January 27, 98. Trajan succeeded him and deified Nerva upon his death. While much of Nerva's life remains shrouded in mystery, ancient historians regarded him as a wise and moderate Emperor. Nerva's greatest achievement was ensuring a peaceful transfer of power after his passing, establishing the Nerva-Antonine dynasty that would shape Roman history for generations to come.