Pertinax

AncientEmperorRoman Empire126 — 193

Son of a freedman, emperor for 87 days.

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Quick Facts

Born

126

Died

193

Country

Roman Empire

Era

Ancient

Occupation

Emperor

Score Overview

Military (10%)25

Political (20%)35

Influence (20%)43

Legacy (20%)35

Leadership (15%)50

Strategy (15%)60

Total Score40.8

Pertinax — Complete Timeline

193 AD

Attempted Reforms and AusterityReform◆ Major

Pertinax attempted to restore discipline to the Praetorian Guard and reform the imperial finances. He reduced taxes, sold off Commodus's extravagant possessions, and tried to curb corruption. These reforms alienated the Praetorian Guard, who expected a large donative.

ReformsAusterityPraetorian Guard

Impact: nationalconstructive

Accession as EmperorPolitical Action◆ Major

Pertinax was proclaimed Roman emperor by the Praetorian Guard after the assassination of Commodus. He was the son of a freedman and had a distinguished military and political career. His accession was initially welcomed by the Senate and people as a return to good governance.

AccessionEmperorPraetorian Guard

Impact: globalconstructive

Assassination by Praetorian GuardPolitical Action◆ Major

After only 87 days in power, Pertinax was assassinated by the Praetorian Guard. The Guard stormed the imperial palace and killed him because he refused to pay them the promised donative. His death triggered a civil war and the auctioning of the empire to Didius Julianus.

AssassinationPraetorian GuardYear of the Five Emperors

Impact: globaltragic