Marcus Salvius Otho facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Otho |
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| 7th Emperor of the Roman Empire | |||||
Roman coin showing Otho
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| Reign | 15 January 69 – 16 April 69 | ||||
| Predecessor | Galba | ||||
| Successor | Vitellius | ||||
| Born | 28 April 32 Ferentium, Italy |
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| Died | 16 April 69 (aged 36) Rome |
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| Wife |
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| Dynasty | None | ||||
| Father | Lucius Otho | ||||
| Mother | Terentia Albia | ||||
Marcus Salvius Otho (born April 28, 32 AD – died April 16, 69 AD) was a Roman military leader. He became the Emperor of Rome in 69 AD. His time as emperor was very short.
Otho took power from the previous emperor, Galba. But he was soon challenged by another leader, Vitellius. Otho was defeated in a big battle just eight weeks after becoming emperor. He died shortly after this defeat. The year 69 AD was a very busy time in Roman history. It is known as the Year of the Four Emperors because four different people ruled Rome in that single year.
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Who Was Otho?
Marcus Salvius Otho was born into an important Roman family. His father, Lucius Otho, was a friend of Emperor Claudius. This connection helped Otho start his career in Roman politics.
Otho grew up in Rome and became part of the emperor's inner circle. He was known for his charm and his connections. He served in various government roles.
Early Life and Career
Otho was born in Ferentium, a town in Italy. He was part of a noble family. His family had good connections with the Roman emperors.
He started his public life as a young man. He held several important positions in the Roman government. These roles helped him gain experience and power.
Friendship with Nero
Otho became a close friend of Emperor Nero. This friendship gave him a lot of influence. He spent many years in Nero's court.
However, their friendship ended. Otho was sent away from Rome. He became the governor of a far-off province called Lusitania (modern-day Portugal). He ruled there for ten years.
Becoming Emperor
In 68 AD, Emperor Nero lost power and died. This created a big problem for Rome. There was no clear leader.
An older general named Galba became the new emperor. But Galba was not very popular. He made many enemies quickly.
The Rise to Power
Otho saw an opportunity to become emperor himself. He had been a loyal supporter of Galba at first. But he soon turned against him.
Otho used his wealth and influence to gain support. He promised money to the Praetorian Guard. This was the emperor's special army.
Taking Control
On January 15, 69 AD, Otho led a revolt. The Praetorian Guard helped him. They marched into the Roman Forum.
Emperor Galba was killed during this uprising. Otho was then declared the new emperor by the soldiers. He had taken power in a sudden change.
Otho's Short Reign
Otho's time as emperor was very brief. He ruled for only about three months. His reign was full of challenges.
He tried to bring stability back to Rome. He also tried to gain the support of the Roman people. But another powerful general was already on the move.
The Challenge from Vitellius
While Otho was taking power in Rome, another general was in Germany. His name was Vitellius. Vitellius also wanted to be emperor.
Vitellius had a large army. His soldiers declared him emperor. They began marching towards Italy.
The Battle of Bedriacum
Otho knew he had to fight Vitellius. He gathered his own army. The two armies met in northern Italy.
The main battle took place near a town called Bedriacum. Otho's forces were defeated. It was a very tough loss for him.
The End of Otho's Reign
After the defeat at Bedriacum, Otho made a difficult decision. He chose to end his own life. He did this to prevent more fighting and bloodshed.
He did not want Rome to suffer more from civil war. His death allowed Vitellius to become emperor. This brought a temporary end to the fighting.
Legacy of Otho
Otho's reign was short but important. It showed how unstable Rome was after Nero's death. His story is a key part of the Year of the Four Emperors.
His actions, though brief, helped shape the future of the Roman Empire. He is remembered as one of the emperors from that chaotic year.
Images for kids
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Otho by Robert Van Voerst after Titian.
See also
In Spanish: Otón para niños
