Emperor Titus, formally known as Titus Flavius Vespasianus, ruled the Roman Empire from 79 AD to 81 AD. Despite his short reign, Titus left a notable impact on Rome and its history. Here’s an overview of Rome during his time:

Early Life and Career

• Birth: December 30, 39 AD.
• Family: Son of Emperor Vespasian, brother to Emperor Domitian.
• Military Service: Distinguished himself in military service, notably in the Jewish-Roman War (66-70 AD), culminating in the Siege of Jerusalem in 70 AD.

Reign as Emperor

• Accession: Titus became emperor on June 24, 79 AD, following the death of his father, Vespasian.
• Popularity: Known for his generosity and good governance, Titus was well-liked by the people and the Senate.

Major Events

1. Eruption of Mount Vesuvius: On August 24, 79 AD, Mount Vesuvius erupted, devastating the cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum. Titus provided extensive relief efforts, including appointing officials to manage recovery and allocating funds for the victims.
2. Completion of the Colosseum: Originally started by Vespasian, the Colosseum (Flavian Amphitheatre) was completed under Titus. He inaugurated it with 100 days of games, including gladiatorial combats and mock naval battles.
3. Plague and Fire: Rome was struck by a plague and a great fire in 80 AD. Titus personally led recovery efforts and provided aid to the afflicted.

Policies and Governance

• Public Welfare: Titus was noted for his efforts to support the public. He continued his father’s policy of building projects and public works.
• Generosity: He was known for his phrase “I have lost a day” if he had not done a favor for someone.

Death and Succession

• Death: Titus died unexpectedly on September 13, 81 AD, possibly of a fever, although some rumors suggested foul play by his brother Domitian.
• Succession: He was succeeded by his brother Domitian, who ruled until 96 AD.

Legacy

• Character: Titus is remembered as one of the good emperors, praised by contemporaries like the historian Suetonius.
• Monuments: The Arch of Titus in Rome commemorates his victories, particularly in the Jewish-Roman War.

Cultural and Social Context

• Architecture: Rome during Titus’s reign saw continued construction and completion of monumental buildings, reflecting the Flavian dynasty’s emphasis on architecture and urban development.
• Society: Roman society was characterized by a hierarchical structure, with a clear divide between the elite and the common people, yet Titus’s reign is noted for attempts at public welfare and popular support.

Notable Sources

• Suetonius: Provides a biography of Titus in “The Twelve Caesars.”
• Tacitus: Offers insights into the political and military aspects of Titus’s rule.
• Josephus: Jewish historian who documented the Jewish-Roman War, providing a firsthand account of Titus’s military leadership.

Titus’s reign, though brief, was marked by significant events and efforts to aid the people of Rome, cementing his legacy as a benevolent and capable leader.

FAQ Section

Was Titus a good emperor?
Titus is generally considered a good emperor. He was known for his generosity, effective governance, and efforts to aid the people during disasters like the eruption of Mount Vesuvius and the subsequent fire and plague in Rome. Contemporary historians, such as Suetonius, praised his reign.

How did Emperor Titus die?
Emperor Titus died unexpectedly on September 13, 81 AD, possibly due to a fever. There were rumors that his brother Domitian, who succeeded him, might have had a hand in his death, but these remain speculative.

How did Roman Emperor Titus die?
Titus died on September 13, 81 AD, likely from natural causes such as a fever. Some ancient sources suggest possible foul play by his brother Domitian, but this is not confirmed.

How did Titus become emperor?
Titus became emperor on June 24, 79 AD, following the death of his father, Emperor Vespasian. As Vespasian’s eldest son, Titus was the natural successor.

Was Titus a good or bad emperor?
Titus is regarded as a good emperor. His short reign was marked by his responsiveness to natural disasters, completion of the Colosseum, and efforts to support the Roman people. His popularity and effective governance earned him a positive reputation.

What happened to Emperor Titus?
Titus ruled as emperor from 79 AD until his death in 81 AD. His reign was noted for major events like the eruption of Mount Vesuvius and the completion of the Colosseum. He died unexpectedly, and his brother Domitian succeeded him.

Who was Emperor Titus?
Titus Flavius Vespasianus was the Roman emperor from 79 AD to 81 AD. He was the eldest son of Emperor Vespasian and known for his military achievements, including the Siege of Jerusalem, and his efforts to aid Rome during natural disasters.

Did Emperor Titus have a pet?
There are no historical records indicating that Emperor Titus had a pet.

Did Emperor Titus have a son?
Titus had a daughter, Julia Flavia, but there is no record of him having a son.

Did Emperor Titus Mede II poison himself?
There is no historical connection between Emperor Titus and Titus Mede II. Titus Mede II is a fictional character from “The Elder Scrolls” video game series, not related to the historical Roman emperor.

Sources:

1. “Titus (39-81 A.D.) Biography – Life of a Roman General & Emperor” from Totally History – Totally History
2. “Emperor Titus: Biography, Colosseum, Vesuvius, and Facts – Roman Empire” from Roman Empire History.