Latin Caesar Domitianus Augustus orig. Titus Flavius Domitianus
born Oct. 24, AD 51
died Sept. 18, 96, Rome
Roman emperor (8196).
The son of Vespasian , he succeeded his brother Titus , whom he probably had killed. His administration was ostensibly egalitarian and based on precedent, but his laws were severe. Defeats in Britain and Germany undid his successes, though increased pay for the army kept it loyal. From 89 he became crueler, imposing a reign of terror over prominent senators and confiscating his victims' property to cover imperial expenses. The group that killed him included his wife and possibly his successor, Nerva .