Vespasian Founds the Flavian Dynasty

A veteran general who earned his reputation conquering Judea, Vespasian becomes emperor in 69 CE and immediately sets about rebuilding Rome's finances, infrastructure, and credibility. He begins construction of the Colosseum (originally called the Flavian Amphitheatre), reforms the tax system, and extends Roman citizenship to parts of Spain and Africa. His reign proves that emperors don't need to come from Rome's old aristocratic families — a practical soldier from a modest Italian town can hold the empire together.