81 CE

Domitian succeeds his brother Titus as emperor. Domitian is not a soldier like his two predecessors, and his administration is directed towards the reinforcement of a monarchy. By taking the title of Dominus ("lord"), he scandalizes the senatorial aristocracy. Romanisation progresses in the provinces, and life in the cities is greatly improved. Many provincials – Spanish, Gallic, and African – become Senators. Pliny the Younger is flamen Divi Augusti (priest in the cult of the Emperor). The silver content of the Roman denarius rises to 92% under emperor Domitian, up from 81% in the reign of Vitellius.

In the 80s, the 1st century.

Geopolitics & Diplomacy

  • September 14 – Domitian succeeds his brother Titus as emperor. Domitian is not a soldier like his two predecessors, and his administration is directed towards the reinforcement of a monarchy. By taking the title of Dominus ("lord"), he scandalizes the senatorial aristocracy. Romanisation progresses in the provinces, and life in the cities is greatly improved. Many provincials – Spanish, Gallic, and African – become Senators.source

Religion & Belief

  • Possible date of the First Epistle of Peter.source
  • Pliny the Younger is flamen Divi Augusti (priest in the cult of the Emperor).source

Economy & Finance

  • The silver content of the Roman denarius rises to 92% under emperor Domitian, up from 81% in the reign of Vitellius.source

Technology & Infrastructure

  • The Arch of Titus is constructed.source

Births

  • Deng Sui, Chinese empress of the Han Dynasty (died 121)source

Deaths