Caracalla

Full Name: Marcus Aurelius Severus Antoninus Augustus
Profession: Roman Emperor

Biography: Caracalla ruled the Roman Empire from 198 to 217 CE. He is best known for expanding Roman citizenship and for his controversial reign marked by violence.

Caracalla began his rule as co-emperor with his father Septimius Severus and brother Geta. After his father's death in 211 CE, Caracalla murdered Geta and became sole emperor. He then ordered a purge of Geta's supporters, killing thousands.

In 212 CE, Caracalla issued the Constitutio Antoniniana. This law granted Roman citizenship to all free men in the empire. The move had significant legal and tax implications for the Roman state.

Caracalla focused heavily on military matters. He led campaigns against Germanic tribes along the Rhine and Danube rivers, as well as beginning a war against the Parthian Empire in the east.

Meanwhile, in Rome, Caracalla oversaw the construction of a massive public bathhouse. The Baths of Caracalla remained in use for centuries and their ruins still stand today. Caracalla also minted new coins and commissioned many statues of himself.

Caracalla himself was known for his admiration of Alexander the Great. He adopted a military appearance and tried to copy Alexander's hairstyle. During his eastern campaign, he even visited Alexander's tomb in Alexandria.

In 217 CE, Caracalla was assassinated by his guards while on campaign. He left behind a mixed legacy with many ancient writers portraying him as a cruel tyrant.

Born: April 4, 188
Birthplace: Lugdunum, Gaul
Star Sign: Aries

Died: April 8, 217 (aged 29)
Cause of Death: Assassination