TACITUS
Marius Claudius Tacitus was born in Italy in the little province of Interamna in 200 AD. Tacitus had been part of many civil offices and was a senator when he was appointed as emperor in 275 AD. Modern researches refute this information about Tacitus and claim that Tacitus was never a senator. Modern studies also show that the emperor was not a direct descendant of the great historian Gaius Cornelius Tacitus.
He was appointed as emperor by the senate, six months after the death of the emperor Aurelian. As emperor he carried the full title of "Imperator Caesar Marcus Claudius Tacitus Pius Felix Invictus Augustus". As senator, it is believed that he executed many of those who were involved in the killing of Aurelian and also those that had defied the murdered emperor.
After becoming emperor, Tacitus soon appointed his brother Florian as a Praetorian Prefect and together they immediately proceeded with their campaign in the East to eliminate the Barbarian tribes. This campaign was a success earning Tacitus the title Gothicus Maximus.
There is very little information regarding the reign of Tacitus. His rule was very short-lived as he was assassinated the following year in Tyana, Cappadocia.
Original Authors: Doods Pangburn
Edit Update Authors: M.A.Harris
Updated On: 15/05/2008
