Aurelian vs Domitian

Aurelian defeated the Juthungi and Alamanni tribes who had invaded Italy, driving them back across the Danube. He also abandoned the province of Dacia, resettling its population south of the Danube to create a more defensible frontier.

Aurelian ordered the construction of a massive defensive wall around Rome, the Aurelian Walls, to protect the city from barbarian invasions. The walls were 19 kilometers long and remained in use for centuries.

Aurelian defeated the Gallic Empire under Tetricus I at the Battle of Ch

Aurelian reformed the Roman currency, introducing a new silver coin (the antoninianus) with a higher silver content to combat inflation. He also attempted to stabilize prices and improve the economy, though with limited long-term success.

Aurelian was assassinated by his own officers while on campaign against the Sassanid Empire, due to a conspiracy involving a secretary who feared punishment. His death cut short his plans for further reforms and campaigns.

Upon Titus's sudden death, Domitian became emperor, the third of the Flavian dynasty. He was the first emperor to take the title 'Dominus et Deus' (Lord and God), emphasizing autocratic rule.

Domitian led a campaign against the Chatti tribe in Germania, extending the Roman frontier. He built the Limes Germanicus, a system of forts and walls, to secure the border.

Domitian expelled philosophers from Rome and persecuted Christians and Jews for refusing to worship the emperor. He executed several senators and confiscated their property, increasing fear.

Domitian built a vast palace on the Palatine Hill, the Domus Augustana, with grand reception halls and gardens. The palace symbolized imperial power and was used by later emperors.

Domitian was assassinated in a palace conspiracy involving his wife Domitia and Praetorian officials. His death ended the Flavian dynasty and led to the accession of Nerva, the first of the Five Good Emperors.