Accession of Tiberius
Tiberius Claudius Nero had spent decades as Augustus's indispensable general and designated successor, yet the transition of power in 14 CE was marked by studied ambiguity. Augustus died at Nola and his will was read in the Senate; Tiberius, already holding tribunician power, assumed the principate with apparent reluctance. The early years showed genuine competence. He maintained Augustus's foreign policy, consolidated the Rhine frontier after the Varian disaster, and avoided military adventurism. He initially cultivated a respectful relationship with the Senate. The tone shifted after the death of his heir Germanicus in 19 CE. Treason trials (maiestas) multiplied, weaponised by informers (delatores). From 23 CE the praetorian prefect Lucius Aelius Sejanus accumulated extraordinary power. In 26 CE Tiberius withdrew permanently to the island of Capri. In 31 CE, warned of a conspiracy, Tiberius had Sejanus arrested and executed. The final years on Capri saw intensified terror. Tiberius died in 37 CE. Tacitus portrayed his reign as a model of despotism beneath a constitutional facade.
- Year: 14 CE
- Category: Political
