The Early Reign of Commodus:
March 17, 180:
Marcus Aurelius, Emperor of Rome, dies while on campaign at Vindobona, leaving his son Commodus as emperor. Despite having no interest in the war, the 18 year old Commodus continues the campaign due to pressure from his generals and the dying command of his father.
October 22, 183:
Having consolidated Roman control over the new provinces of Sarmatia and Marcomannia, Commodus returns to Rome for the first time. He celebrates a triumph and declares himself "Germanicus Maximus."
Mid-180s:
The new provinces prove to be good land for grain production and a source of new slaves, as the native population continues a series of abortive revolts, resulting in a very slight improvement in the Roman economy, and freeing up money for both the military and Commodus' lavish expenditure. Despite his popularity with the people of Rome, Commodus scandalizes the senatorial class by his distinctly un-emperor like behavior. In addition to rejecting the Stoic personal style of his father and placing the empire in the hands of favorites, Commodus goes so far as to participate in gladiatorial combat, where he always wins. Several conspiracies against the emperor and his associates are unearthed and brutally supressed.
Late-180s:
As Commodus becomes increasingly erratic, his favorite Cleander takes over most of the management of the empire.
December 13, 192
A plot to kill Commodus by bribing his wrestling partner is uncovered. The wrestler and the plotters are summarily executed.