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One of Rome’s Most Sorrowful and Unfortunate Emperors: Claudius

Throughout history, there have been emperors known for their bravery, cruelty, toughness, and warrior spirit. However, some rulers have passed through life carrying profoundly emotional elements that even bring sadness to the observer. Roman Emperor Claudius was one such unfortunate ruler.

An Aristocrat Who Couldn’t Be an Emperor


Claudius was born in 10 BC outside Italy, in Gaul. He had a profound interest in history since childhood. Despite this, he couldn’t involve himself in politics. He first entered governance as a consul alongside his nephew Caligula in 37 AD. Caligula had become emperor by Tiberius’ will, while Claudius was kept away from state affairs. His physical and mental ailments kept him distanced from bureaucracy. At that time, nobody even remotely considered Claudius capable of becoming emperor.

A Life Marred by Illnesses


Claudius had a disabled leg since birth. His shoulders and knees were weak, his head trembled, and saliva sometimes dripped from his mouth. His hands were weak, and occasionally, his nose would run when he got excited or angry. However, these ailments weren’t very apparent when he wasn’t excited or agitated. His speech impediment and lack of eloquence also diminished Claudius’ charisma.

Engagement with Science


Due to his lag in politics, Claudius dedicated himself to reading and writing. He had a great interest in history and also had an inclination towards literature. Through his research and efforts, he authored many significant works, including the histories of Etruria and Carthage. Unfortunately, Claudius’ important historical writings haven’t survived to our time. However, we are aware of their existence through mentions by other historians.

Becoming an Emperor Overnight


While Claudius immersed himself in scientific research, Emperor Caligula’s harsh and cruel actions began to disturb many. Finally, in 41 AD, dissatisfied factions within the government assassinated Caligula. Consequently, Claudius became the last surviving male member of his family. When Caligula was killed, Claudius, fearing for his own life, hid behind a curtain in the palace. However, the soldiers didn’t kill him; instead, they declared Claudius the new emperor. Thus, a man whom no one cared about suddenly became the Roman Emperor.

Reversing Prejudices


After becoming emperor, Claudius began to exhibit a more stable administration than expected. In a short time, he included Britain into Roman territories. Additionally, he personally attended important trials and occasionally served as a judge. Hence, he showed an interest in the law. Claudius respected decisions made by the Senate and, when necessary, engaged in rational discussions. He augmented the Senate’s power himself. However, there were many attempts to depose Claudius. As a result, some questionable executions occurred to maintain control.

The Death of an Emperor


Claudius unexpectedly became an emperor. He expanded his country’s borders through a stable administration. He valued science, reading, and writing. By 54 AD, Claudius often quarreled with his last wife. Ancient historians suggest that Claudius was poisoned by his wife. However, many of these sources contain mixed and contradictory information. Consequently, modern historians still debate whether Claudius was assassinated or died of natural causes.

In conclusion, Emperor Claudius had indeed lived a successful life. Despite being excluded due to certain ailments from birth, he rose to the position of Emperor. After his passing in 54 AD, Nero and the Senate never failed to honor the deceased ruler and always remembered Claudius.

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