Titus

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Titus Flavius Caesar Vespasianus Augustus was born on December 30, 39 AD, a date that marked the beginning of an illustrious career as Roman Emperor from 79 to 81 AD. As a member of the esteemed Flavian dynasty, Titus rose through the ranks to claim the throne after his father Vespasian's death, making him the first Roman emperor to ascend to power following his biological father. Prior to his ascension, Titus had already established himself as a skilled military commander, serving under his father in Judea during the First Jewish-Roman War. The campaign was temporarily halted by the sudden death of Emperor Nero in 68 AD, paving the way for Vespasian's bid for imperial power during the tumultuous Year of the Four Emperors. As Vespasian was declared Emperor on July 1, 69 AD, Titus was tasked with quelling the Jewish rebellion. In 70 AD, he led a siege and captured Jerusalem, subsequently destroying the city and the Second Temple. This remarkable achievement earned Titus a triumph, which is commemorated by the iconic Arch of Titus to this day. During his father's reign, Titus gained notoriety in Rome as prefect of the Praetorian Guard and for his involvement in a scandalous relationship with Jewish Queen Berenice. Despite concerns over his character, Titus proved himself to be an effective ruler following Vespasian's death in 79 AD, earning praise from historians such as Suetonius. As Emperor, Titus is best known for completing the magnificent Colosseum and for his generosity in providing relief to those affected by two major disasters: the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD and a devastating fire in Rome in 80 AD. Tragically, Titus's life was cut short when he died of a fever on September 13, 81 AD, after serving as Emperor for barely two years. The Roman Senate deified Titus, and he was succeeded by his younger brother Domitian.