Trajan

Known as one of the greatest Roman emperors, Trajan was famously referred to as "the finest emperor" by the Senate and controlled ancient Rome from 98 AD until his demise in 117 AD. One of Rome's most notable rulers, Trajan is credited with bringing the empire to its pinnacle.

He is recognized as an accomplished soldier-emperor who oversaw the largest military expansion in Roman history and brought the empire to its highest geographical extent at the time of his demise. He had gained notoriety by his charitable reign that oversaw vast public building initiatives and welfare measures and was admired by the Senate, the military, and the general public.

Trajan's legacy as an emperor has persisted. He was one of the select few kings whose fame has endured for 19 centuries. Marcus Ulpius Traianus was the second Roman emperor of the Nerva-Antonine dynasty, sometimes known as Rome's "Golden Age," and is frequently mentioned by historians as the "greatest Roman emperor."

The Senate bestowed the blessing felicior Augusto, melior Traiano, which roughly translates to "be fortunate than Augustus and better than Trajan," on each succeeding emperor.

Lifespan: September 53 AD - 8 August, 117 AD