Marcus Aurelius

By: Monica, Saul, and Mia

Who was Marcus Aurelius?

Marcus Aurelius was an emperor, military leader and scholar. He was emperor of Rome from 161-180 AD. He wrote about his philosophy in his Meditations. Aurelius was one of the most respected emperors in Roman history.

Early lifeAurelius was born on April 26, 121 in Rome, Italy. He was born into a wealthy family. Aurelius was a hardworking student and he was fluent in Greek and Latin. Due to his hard-work and determination Aurelius was noticed by Emperor Hadrian. Emperor Hadrian also arranged for Aurelius to be adopted by Emperor Pius Antoninus at the age of 17.

As he reached adult hood, he spent time with his father and learned how the government worked because he was going to be emperor. As he learned more about government people began to rely on Aurelius.

Early in Politics

Rising as an emperor

After his father died in 161, Aurelius rose to power. Aurelius and his brother Verus, ruled the empire together. Aurelius and Verus fought in battle together against the Parthian empire because the Parthian empire wanted to control lands in the east.

Marcomannic Wars

• German tribes crossed the Danube and attacked a Roman city.

• Aurelius and Verus went to defend their city. During this war, Verus died leaving Aurelius as the only emperor.

Contributions as an emperor

Aurelius made many contributions towards his empire for his people. He opened schools for the children in order for them to have an education and opened hospitals for the people to be healthy. Aurelius tried to humanize criminal laws as well.

Stoicism

Stoicism is a philosophy in which a person learns to hide and control their emotions during times of suffering. In his books the Meditations it showed a better understanding of his philosophy. There was also an explanation of self mastery and the use of logic.

WHO WAS AURELIUS’ SUCCESSOR?

After Marcus Aurelius’ death, Commodus became his successor. While Aurelius was a kind and respected emperor who cared about his people, his son, Commodus, was insane and did not care about the people of his empire.

Facts about Aurelius

• Aurelius is best known for Aurelius made sure slave masters did not treat their slaves in a bad way.

• his political achievements. • He wrote the 12 books of the Meditations in

Greek.• Although Marcus Aurelius was murdered by his

son in the movie Gladiator, in reality he had died due to natural causes.