7 Significant Romans
History of Nero
The Roman Emperor Nero is one of the most controversial figures in the history of the Roman Empire. During the early years of Nero's reign, he lowered taxes and made positive changes to slavery laws. One of the most notable events that occurred during the later years was the burning of Rome in 64 A.D. Nero was 17 years old when he became the Emperor of the Roman Empire after the death of his stepfather, Emperor Claudius in 54 A.D. Nero was a respected and fair leader during the first part of his reign. He gave slaves the right to bring complaints up against their masters and banned capital punishment within the Empire. He also supported the arts and athletics.
Ancient Rome: Websites
- Achievements of Emperor NeroThe Roman Emperor Nero is one of the most controversial figures in the history of the Roman Empire.
- Historiography of NeroThe history of Nero's reign is problematic in that no historical sources survived that were contemporary with Nero. These first histories, while they still existed, were described as biased and fantastical, either overly critical or praising of Nero.
- Impact of the Nero on the Roman EmpireRoman history was noted for having very many ‘bad’ emperors. One of the most notorious was Nero. He was the last of the Julian-Claudian dynasty and became infamous for his artistic pretensions, hedonism, and his great cruelty.
- Emperor NeroThe initial years of Nero’s rule were marred by the struggle for control and influence between his mother Agrippina and his close advisors Seneca and Burrus.