What happened in Rome after Nero’s death?

Following the death of Nero in 68 ce, the extinction of the Julio-Claudian dynasty left the Roman Empire without a clear successor, triggering a period of intense civil war known as the Year of the Four Emperors (69 ce).123

During this chaotic year, four leaders seized power in rapid succession as different regional armies vied for control:3

• Galba: Initially recognized by the Senate, his reign was short-lived due to his unpopular economic policies and age.2
• Otho: He orchestrated the murder of Galba to take power but was defeated by the Rhineland army after only three months.23
• Aulus Vitellius: He was acclaimed emperor by the Rhineland legions but was ultimately defeated by forces supporting the final claimant.23
• Vespasian: The commander in Judaea, he emerged as the final victor, establishing the Flavian dynasty and restoring stability to the empire.123

This transition period was marked by widespread misery and military conflict, as the lack of a central imperial authority caused the Roman legions to fight one another for control of the throne.24