Nero

Full Name: Nero Claudius Caesar Augustus Germanicus
Profession: Roman Emperor

Biography: Nero Claudius Caesar Augustus Germanicus was the last Roman emperor of the Julio-Claudian dynasty. He ruled from AD 54 to 68, and is best known for his controversial reign and artistic pursuits, including the claim that he "fiddled while Rome burned"—a reference to his purported activities during the Great Fire of Rome in AD 64.

Born Lucius Domitius Ahenobarbus in AD 37, Nero was adopted by Emperor Claudius in AD 50. He became emperor at age 16 after Claudius died but his early rule was guided by his mother Agrippina, the philosopher Seneca, and the military commander Burrus.

Nero oversaw several military successes, including a peace treaty with Parthia and the suppression of Boudica's revolt in Britain, as well as undertaking public works projects and promoting cultural activities. Nero also performed as a singer and musician himself, which was popular with common people but scandalous to the elite.

In AD 59, Nero had his mother Agrippina killed which marked a turning point in his rule. The Great Fire of Rome then occurred in AD 64, leading to widespread destruction, and in the aftermath Nero persecuted Christians who he blamed for the fire.

Nero's rule later became increasingly unstable, and he faced revolts led by Vindex and Galba. In AD 68, the Senate declared Nero a public enemy forcing him to flee Rome and eventually take his own life, thus ending the Julio-Claudian dynasty and igniting a brief period of civil wars known as the Year of the Four Emperors.

Born: December 15, 37
Birthplace: Antium, Italy
Star Sign: Sagittarius

Died: June 9, 68 (aged 30)
Cause of Death: Assisted suicide