LordBest's Gallery of Roman Emperors and Empresses.

Version 2.0

 

Marcus Aurelius

Marcus Aurelius was recognised by the emperor Hadrian as a fine and capable youth and betrothed to the daughter of Aelius. The emperor Antoninus Pius adopted him and in 145 A.D. he married Antoninus' daughter, Faustina II. In 161 A.D., he succeeded Antoninus as Augustus, immediately proclaiming Lucius Verus his co-emperor. Although known for his adherence to the philosophy of Stoicism and as a naturally peaceful man, Marcus reign was disturbed by war with Parthia, plague and then a long, hard war along the Danube frontier. He died on March 17th, 180 A.D. and was deified by the senate soon after.