Claudius vs Lucius Tarquinius Priscus

After Caligula's assassination, Claudius was found hiding and proclaimed emperor by the Praetorian Guard. The Senate reluctantly accepted him, marking the first time the Guard directly chose an emperor.

Claudius initiated the construction of a new harbor at Ostia to improve Rome's grain supply. The project included a large artificial basin and a lighthouse, facilitating trade and food imports.

Claudius ordered the invasion of Britain, sending four legions under Aulus Plautius. He later visited the island to accept the surrender of the British tribes, incorporating southern Britain into the Roman Empire.

Claudius extended Roman citizenship to certain provincial communities, particularly in Gaul. He also admitted Gauls into the Senate, promoting integration of the empire's elites.

Claudius married his niece Agrippina the Younger, who then maneuvered to have her son Nero adopted as Claudius's heir. This marriage led to Claudius's eventual poisoning and Nero's succession.

Tarquinius Priscus waged a successful war against the Sabines, capturing the town of Collatia and other territories. He celebrated a triumph for his victory, bringing wealth and slaves to Rome, and strengthening his position as king.

Tarquinius Priscus initiated the construction of the Circus Maximus, Rome's first and largest chariot racing stadium, in the valley between the Palatine and Aventine hills. This venue became a central site for public games and entertainment, hosting the Ludi Romani.

Tarquinius Priscus began the construction of the Cloaca Maxima, Rome's great sewer system, to drain the marshy lowlands between the hills. This engineering project improved sanitation and allowed for the development of the Roman Forum as a public space.

Tarquinius Priscus introduced Etruscan symbols of authority to Rome, including the fasces, the curule chair, and the purple toga. These insignia became standard for Roman magistrates and symbolized the power and dignity of the state.

Tarquinius Priscus was assassinated by the sons of his predecessor, Ancus Marcius, who sought to reclaim the throne. The assassination occurred after a reign of 38 years, and the conspirators failed to seize power as Servius Tullius became king.