The Roman Empire, one of history’s most powerful civilizations, was ruled by a series of emperors—some great, others infamous. While many Roman emperors were capable leaders who expanded the empire and maintained stability, others became notorious for their cruelty, excess, and madness. Here, we explore some of the most scandalous emperors in Roman history.
1. Caligula (Reigned 37–41 CE) – The Mad Emperor
Gaius Julius Caesar Augustus Germanicus, better known as Caligula, began his reign with promise but quickly descended into madness and tyranny. At first, he was popular due to his generosity and efforts to ease the burdens on Roman citizens. However, after a severe illness, his behavior became increasingly erratic.
Caligula engaged in extreme extravagance, spent vast sums on unnecessary projects, and even declared himself a god. He was known for his sadistic tendencies, executing or humiliating senators and nobles for his own amusement. One of the most famous stories—though likely exaggerated—claims that he intended to make his horse, Incitatus, a consul. His reign ended violently when he was assassinated by the Praetorian Guard in 41 CE.
2. Nero (Reigned 54–68 CE) – The Emperor Who Watched Rome Burn
Nero is perhaps the most infamous of all Roman emperors. Initially, he was guided by capable advisors, but over time, he became increasingly despotic. His reign was marked by paranoia, extravagance, and ruthless suppression of his enemies—including the execution of his own mother, Agrippina.
One of the most infamous events of his rule was the Great Fire of Rome in 64 CE. While historians debate whether he started the fire, Nero is accused of doing little to stop it and instead using the disaster as an opportunity to build his extravagant Golden House (Domus Aurea). He also scapegoated Christians, subjecting them to brutal persecution. Eventually, rebellion broke out, and he was declared a public enemy by the Senate. Facing execution, Nero committed suicide in 68 CE, reportedly saying, "What an artist dies in me!"
3. Commodus (Reigned 177–192 CE) – The Gladiator Emperor
Commodus, the son of the respected emperor Marcus Aurelius, proved to be a disastrous ruler. Unlike his father, who was a philosopher-king, Commodus was more interested in personal pleasure and gladiatorial combat than governing the empire.
He frequently participated in staged gladiator battles, often rigged in his favor, and even declared himself the reincarnation of Hercules. His mismanagement led to economic troubles, political instability, and growing resentment among the Roman elite. Eventually, he was assassinated in 192 CE, strangled by his own wrestling partner as part of a conspiracy to remove him from power. shutdown123