The Year of Four Emperors
In 69 AD, after Nero's suicide, four men claimed the throne: Galba, Otho, Vitellius, and Vespasian. Armies marched on Rome. Soldiers murdered emperors. Tacitus reveals "a secret of state: an emperor could be made elsewhere than at Rome." Power came not from the Senate or people, but from the legions. Whoever controlled the soldiers controlled Rome. This "secret" would shape Roman history for centuries - emperors lived or died by the soldiers' favor.
The Text
What You'll Learn
Comprehension
Names the four emperors: Galba, Otho, Vitellius, Vespasian (or describes the chaos)
Cause & Consequence
Explains why chaos erupted: no legitimate way to choose an emperor after Nero
Meaning
Reflects on the relationship between force and legitimate authority
Evidence
Cites a specific passage or phrase from the text
Defense
Maintains or thoughtfully revises their position under challenge
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