Roman Emperor Nero (58-69 AD)

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Born as L Domitius Ahenobarbus on 15 December 37 AD to Agrippina Jr and Domitius Ahenobarbus. His name was changed to Nero Claudius Ca esar Drusus Germanicus in 50 AD at the time of his adoption by Claudius. The first years of his reign were managed by Seneca and Burru s. When Burrus died in 62 AD and Seneca retired, Nero's vast spending caused him to become hated by the citizenry.

In 65 AD a group of Senators let by Gaius Calpurnius Piso organized a plot to assassinate him. Piso's intent was to assassinate Nero a nd have the Praetorian Guard, under Ofonius Tigellinus, proclaim him emperor. The plot, known as the Pisonian Conspiracy was uncovered the night before it was to be executed, and several Senators were executed. Piso was ordered to commit suicide, and others such as th e poet Lucan and philosopher Seneca were forced to do the same. Finally in 68 AD, a number of revolts arose in the provinces of Africa , Spain, and Gaul. Nero fled Rome and eventually committed suicide in Ostia.

The Great Fire of Rome occurred during his reign in 64 AD. Tradition has long held that the fire was started by Nero himself and that he recited poetry or 'fiddled' as the city burned. This is most likely a fabrication.