Marcus Claudius Tacitus

Marcus Claudius Tacitus

200c-276

"The Life of Tacitus"

There isn't much known about Tacitus. His origins are often unclear. Tacitus was a roman orator and a historian. He was a native of Interamna (Terni) in Umbria. His full name is Marcus Claudius Tacticus. He was born into a very wealthy family. During his long life, he held many in civil offices.

In 273 he served as a counsel. Tacitus held the consulship twice. The first time was in 273 and the second time was in 276. Tacitus being different from Auerlian and Probus, Tacitus did not take the title as "born god and master". He was proud to claim his decent from the historian Gauis Cornelius Tacitus.

6 months after the assassination of Auerlian, Tacitus was chosen by the Senate to succeed him. No one is really sure why Tacitus was chosen to succeed him. Some think it might have to do with is health and the family he came from. He served a very brief time as Roman emperor. He tried to restore the power of the senate. After a victory over the Alans, (an Iranian nomadic group among the Sarmatian people), he was assassinated at Tyana in Cappadocia. Tacitusus was a very wealthy man. Another account says he died from illness. It is for sure that he died in July of 276 AD. He only ruled for six months.

Tacitus was known for his honesty, strength, and vigor. Tacitus had many desirable qualities. Unfortunately, his gentle character and old age unfitted him for the throne in such lawless times. He failed to restore the glory of the senate. Probus succeeded him. Tacitus being a guy of great wealth gave his money to the state. He had considerable literary culture.