Hadrian (117–138 CE)

Hadrian (117–138 CE)

Hadrian (Caesar Traianus Hadrianus) was Roman emperor from 117 to 138. A member of the Nerva-Antonine dynasty and third of the Five Good Emperors.

Hadrian was known for his travels throughout the empire and the civil and military constructions of his reign. He travelled almost constantly throughout the empire and got directly involved in imperial affairs, especially building projects. Some of the projects he oversaw were Hadrian's Wall, which marked the northern limit of Britannia. He had the Pantheon rebuilt in Rome. He organised the construction of The Temple of Venus and Roma.

Hadrian married Vibia Sabina, grandniece of the ruling emperor, Trajan. This was quite early in his career and could be viewed as strategic. On his succession, Hadrian had four leading senators put to death and abandoned Trajan's policies of expanding the Empire. These acts resulted in the senate and himself not having a great relationship, it could be said that it was hostile.

In later life Hadrian suffered from chronic illness. After the death of his son and successor, Hadrian adopted Antoninus Pius, putting him in line for the throne. He insisted that Antoninus Pius in turn adopted  Marcus Aurelius and Lucius Verus as his own heirs. Hadrian died later that year.