Cornelius Tacitus
Tacitus: The Histories, Volumes I and II
"Tacitus: The Histories, Volumes I and II" by Cornelius Tacitus is a Roman historical chronicle written c. 100–110. This gripping work chronicles the turbulent Year of Four Emperors following Nero's downfall, when Galba, Otho, Vitellius, and Vespasian each seized power in rapid succession. Through dramatic narration and sharp character portraits, Tacitus captures a world of violence, political intrigue, and military chaos. Only the first books survive, revealing how imperial power became dependent on legionary support rather than senatorial authority—a lesson written thirty years after these devastating events.