DIO CASSIUS

born c. 150, , Nicaea, Bithynia [now Iznik, Tur.] died 235 also spelled Dion Cassius, in full Cassius Dio Cocceianus Roman administrator and historian, the author of Romaika, a history of Rome, written in Greek, that is a most important authority for the last years of the republic and the early empire. The son of Cassius Apronianus, governor of Dalmatia and Cilicia under Marcus Aurelius, and grandson of Dio Chrysostom, Dio Cassius went to Rome (180) after his father's death and became a member of the Senate. By Macrinus he was entrusted with the administration of Pergamum and Smyrna, and on his return to Rome he was made consul. After this he obtained the proconsulship of Africa and again on his return was sent as legate successively to Dalmatia and Pannonia. He was granted a second consulship by Alexander Severus, in 229, shortly before retirement. His history of Rome consisted of 80 books, beginning with the landing of Aeneas in Italy and ending in the reign of Alexander Severus (222235). Much of this work is preserved in later histories by Constantine VII Porphyrogenitus, John VIII Xiphilinus, and John Zonaras. Dio's industry was great, and the various offices he held gave him opportunities for historical investigation. His narratives show the hand of the practiced soldier and politician; the language is correct and free from affectation. Although, his work is far more than a mere compilation, it is not remarkable for impartiality, vigour of judgment, or critical historical faculty.