In 193AD, there was considerable turmoil in the Roman Empire. Emperor Commodus had been assassinated on New Years Eve 192, and it was hoped the transition to a new emperor would be simple. The Empire had just experienced 200 years of peace, the “Pax Romana”, and most wanted things to carry on as before.
It was not going to happen. The following year would become known as The Year of the Five Emperors. A few months after the death of Commodus, the position of emperor and control of the entire Roman Empire would be sold in an auction.