Nerva-Antonine · 98 AD — 117 AD

Trajan

Marcus Ulpius Traianus

Considered one of the Five Good Emperors. Under his rule, the Roman Empire reached its greatest territorial extent.

What shaped his reign

  • Expanded the empire to its maximum extent
  • Conquered Dacia and annexed it as a province
  • Extensive building program including Trajan's Forum
  • Implemented social welfare programs

A few things to remember

  • First Roman emperor born outside Italy (in Hispania)
  • Earned the title Optimus Princeps (the best ruler)
  • Trajan's Column still stands in Rome today
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