Otho, Roman emperor (b. AD 32)

Marcus Salvius Otho, born on April 28, 32 AD, and passing on April 16, 69 AD, briefly held the formidable title of Roman Emperor for a mere three months, from January 15 to April 16, 69 AD. His short but dramatic reign unfolded during one of Rome's most tumultuous periods, famously known as the Year of the Four Emperors. Otho emerged as the second of these four rulers, his ascent and fall emblematic of the political instability that gripped the Roman Empire following the death of Emperor Nero.

From Nobleman to Emperor: Otho's Path to Power

Born into a distinguished Etruscan family, Marcus Salvius Otho initially enjoyed a privileged position within Roman society. He began his career as a close friend and trusted courtier of the youthful Emperor Nero, a relationship that provided him with access to the very heart of imperial power and its extravagant lifestyle. However, this association took a dramatic turn when Otho's wife, the beautiful and ambitious Poppaea Sabina, captivated Nero's affections, leading to a scandalous affair. In 58 AD, Otho found himself effectively banished from Rome's elite circles, appointed as governor of the distant and rugged province of Lusitania (modern-day Portugal).

Despite this apparent demotion, Otho approached his new role with unexpected diligence, governing Lusitania moderately and proving himself an able administrator for a decade. This period in exile honed his political acumen and military experience, preparing him for the turbulent events that would soon engulf the empire. In 68 AD, as discontent with Nero escalated across the provinces, leading to widespread revolts, Otho strategically allied himself with Servius Sulpicius Galba, the elderly and respected governor of the neighboring province of Hispania Tarraconensis. Galba was preparing to march on Rome to challenge Nero's rule, and Otho saw an opportunity for a swift return to influence.

Otho accompanied Galba on his triumphant march to Rome, lending his support as Nero's reign crumbled and he was ultimately forced to commit suicide. Galba was proclaimed emperor, but his brief rule was marked by austerity, unpopular policies, and a perceived lack of generosity towards the Praetorian Guard, the very soldiers who had facilitated his rise. Seizing upon this widespread dissatisfaction and feeling overlooked by Galba, Otho, leveraging his earlier connections and promising significant financial rewards, orchestrated a swift and brutal coup. On January 15, 69 AD, less than three months into Galba's reign, Otho's supporters, primarily elements of the Praetorian Guard, assassinated Galba in the Roman Forum, paving the way for Otho to be proclaimed emperor.

The Shadow of Civil War: Facing Vitellius

Otho inherited the imperial throne, but not without immediate and formidable challenges. Even before Galba's death, a powerful new contender had emerged: Aulus Vitellius, the ambitious commander of the legions in Germania Inferior. Vitellius had already declared himself emperor and was leading a significant, battle-hardened army towards Italy. Otho, despite his sudden ascension, understood the gravity of the situation and promptly mobilized his own forces, drawing upon the legions stationed in Italy, the Praetorian Guard, and elements from the Danubian provinces.

The two rival armies eventually clashed in what became known as the First Battle of Bedriacum, a fiercely contested engagement fought near Cremona in northern Italy. The fighting was exceptionally brutal, resulting in a staggering 40,000 casualties for both sides. Despite some initial successes, Otho's forces ultimately suffered a decisive defeat and were forced to retreat. Faced with the prospect of prolonged civil war, further bloodshed, and the potential for a devastating struggle for Rome itself, Otho made a profound and unexpected decision.

A Final Act: Otho's Suicide and Its Aftermath

Rather than prolong the conflict, rally his remaining troops for another push, or attempt to flee, Marcus Otho chose to commit suicide. On April 16, 69 AD, he took his own life, reportedly to spare the Roman state further suffering and bloodshed. His final act was widely seen as a noble gesture, demonstrating a sense of duty to Rome that transcended personal ambition. With Otho's death, Vitellius was promptly proclaimed emperor by his victorious legions, marking the third emperor within the tumultuous Year of the Four Emperors. Otho's short reign, though brief, underscored the extreme fragility of imperial power in a period defined by military might, political intrigue, and personal ambition.

Frequently Asked Questions About Marcus Otho

What was the "Year of the Four Emperors"?

The "Year of the Four Emperors" (69 AD) was a chaotic period in Roman history following the suicide of Emperor Nero. During this single year, four different men — Galba, Otho, Vitellius, and Vespasian — successively held the title of emperor, each coming to power through military force and civil war, highlighting the instability of the Roman state.

How did Marcus Otho become Roman Emperor?

Otho initially supported Galba's rebellion against Nero. After Galba became emperor, Otho, feeling betrayed and sensing Galba's unpopularity, leveraged his connections with the Praetorian Guard and orchestrated a coup. He had Galba assassinated in the Roman Forum and was then proclaimed emperor by the guard.

What was Otho's relationship with Emperor Nero?

Otho was initially a close friend and courtier of Emperor Nero. However, their relationship soured when Nero began an affair with Otho's wife, Poppaea Sabina. This led to Otho's effective banishment from Rome, being appointed governor of Lusitania.

Who was Poppaea Sabina?

Poppaea Sabina was a Roman empress, first wife of Otho, and later the second wife of Emperor Nero. She was known for her beauty and ambition, and her affair with Nero played a significant role in Otho's political trajectory.

Why did Otho commit suicide?

After his forces suffered a decisive defeat at the First Battle of Bedriacum against Vitellius' army, Otho chose to commit suicide. His stated reason was to prevent further civil war and bloodshed within the Roman Empire, a decision often lauded by ancient historians as a noble and selfless act.

What was the significance of the Battle of Bedriacum?

The First Battle of Bedriacum was a major engagement in the civil war of 69 AD, fought between the armies of Otho and Vitellius. Its outcome led directly to Otho's suicide and Vitellius' ascension to the throne, marking a crucial turning point in the Year of the Four Emperors.