Why Did the Roman Army Not Install the Leader as Emperor?
The assumption that the Roman Army never installed the leader as emperor is a common misconception. Throughout Rome's history, ambitious and powerful military leaders were frequently proclaimed as emperors. However, the complexity of the Roman military structure and the evolving nature of imperial authority influenced this process.
Multiple Incidents and Proclamation of Emperors
There were indeed numerous instances where Roman generals were declared emperors by their soldiers. Figures such as Galba, Vitellius, Vespasian, Septimius Severus, Philip the Arab, Decius, Trajan, Claudius II, and Probus are just a few examples of those who gained power through military support. Additionally, many other generals attempted to seize power but failed to secure it.
Some notable examples include Cornelius Lentulus Gaetulicus, who fought against Caligula, and Arruntius Camillus Scribonianus, who rebelled against a later emperor. These instances highlight the recurring theme of military leaders seeking, and often gaining, the position of emperor through the backing of their troops.
No Single Leader of the Roman Army
Contrary to popular belief, there wasn’t a singular “leader of the Roman Army.” The structure of the Roman military was more complex than a simple hierarchy. Individual legions were commanded by their respective officers, and governors of provinces often controlled multiple legions under their command. The concept of a single leader of the entire Roman Army, aside from the Emperor himself, is an oversimplification.
One of the most notable instances of an army declaring someone as emperor was Vespasian. He commanded troops in the East and marched his forces to Rome following the chaos surrounding the assassination of Nero in AD 69. Over the next century, the transition of power became increasingly military-centric, with emperors often being placed in office by their fellow soldiers.
Challenges and Conflicts
The Roman military was not a unified force but rather a collection of various armies, each with its own interests and leaders. Thus, conflicts and rivalries were common, leading to struggles for power. Emperors from different regions often had to contend with these challenges, sometimes even resorting to combat to assert their authority.
An interesting example is when a general, after being proclaimed emperor by his troops, refused to renounce his claims. In one instance, a general threatened self-destruction if his soldiers did not retract their declaration, showcasing the personal stakes involved in these struggles for power.
Conclusion
In summary, while it is not accurate to assert that the Roman Army never proclaimed a leader as emperor, it is crucial to understand the complex nature of Roman military and imperial systems. The repeated events of ambitious generals becoming emperors through the support of their troops highlight the dynamic and often violent nature of ancient Roman politics and military leadership.