Didius Julianus, born Marcus Didius Severus Julianus, is infamous for purchasing the Roman Empire. His rise to power followed the tumultuous reign of Commodus, who was assassinated in 192 AD, marking the end of the Nerva-Antonine dynasty. Commodus’ successor, Pertinax, attempted to rein in the Praetorian Guard’s power but was quickly killed by them. Seizing the opportunity, the Guard auctioned the empire to the highest bidder. Julianus, an ambitious and wealthy senator, won this bid. The Severan Emperors and the Demise of the Roman Senate Rome’s African Emperor: Septimius Severus and the Scottish Invasion Julianus was born in Mediolanum (modern-day Milan) into a distinguished family. Despite his administrative skills and early career success, including military command and governorships in Dalmatia and Germania Inferior, his ambition led him to the dubious purchase of the Roman throne. This act, perceived as a betrayal by the people and Senate, garnered him widespread disdain. Read moreSection: NewsVideosHistoryFamous PeopleRead Later