TRAJAN Trā’ jən (M. Ulpius Traianus). Emperor of Rome (a.d. 98-117).

Trajan was born in Spain in the year 53, and after serving in various military and civil capacities was made governor of Germany in 97. While there he learned of his adoption by the then emperor, Nerva, an act which according to the custom of the time assured him of the succession to the throne. Nirva’s action was prompted by a revolt of the praetorian guard, which made him realize the need of a firmer hand upon affairs of state.

Upon Nerva’s death in 98, Trajan lingered in Germany on some unfinished business, and did not come to Rome until 99. His first act was to punish the mutinous praetorians, and then to show his displeasure he gave to the people only half the usual donation. He won the favor of the Senate by confirming all their privileges. A natural leader, he soon became popular with both army and people.

The general administration of Trajan was paternalistic. He took upon himself the burden of ruling and manifested an unusual capacity to deal with the complex problems of the huge empire. His policy, however, discouraged initiative on the part of the provinces which soon learned to look to Rome for the solution of all their problems. By continuing the free distribution of grain and the provision of money for feeding the poor children of the municipalities, and esp. by choosing good governors, he maintained the well-being of the provinces. He greatly expanded the program of public works, building new baths for the city of Rome, as well as a magnificent forum, and by constructing new roads throughout his domain. The combined firmness and humanity of his character is illustrated by his attitude toward the Christians (see Pliny, Epistulae, X. 96, 97).

His reign was marked by two great military ventures. In two campaigns (101-102 and 105-106) he subjugated Dacia, the region N of the Danube, and made it into a Rom. province. Here gold and salt mines were successfully operated. The second endeavor was against the Parthians (q.v.) in 113-117. He made at best a precarious conquest, and died in Cilicia while on the way back to Rome.

Bibliography Oxford Classical Dictionary.