WI Verginius Rufus becomes Emperor in 68 AD?

In the year 68, revolt began in the provinces, with the uprising of Julius Videx, a Gallic noble, governor of Gallia Lugdunensis. His purpose, it seems clear, was not a nationalistic undertaking but an attempt to depose Nero and offer Rome the opportunity to choose a new ruler. But he received little support from other governors; indeed, only the elderly Galba in Spain indicated approval. Vindex was in communication with Lucius Verginius Rufus, governor of Germania Superior, but when he moved his army in Gaul, a battle ensued between the two forces, perhaps instigated by the army of Germany. Upon Vindex's defeat and death, Verginius was offered the purple by his troops, which he rejected, stating that such a decision was a prerogative of the Senate. By this action he gained enduring fame.
WI Rufus had accepted the Purple? He had the manpower to march to Rome and depose Nero... Galba would support him in his bid... How is that altering History? Any thoughts?
 
Well the fun part would be if Rufus as Emperor decides to give more powers to the Senate reverting that way the Empire to the early days of Augustus or Julius Caesar... Of course the Praetorians and Provincial Generals wouldnt like that...:D
 
He could rationalize marching on Rome by saying that it is the Senate's perogative to choose the Imperator and the Senate is being oppressed by Nero and the Praetorians.

Ergo, he goes to Rome and annihilates all the lot.
 
If Rufus was (as I presume he was) intelligent enough to realise the Senate had no real power, perhaps he could march on Rome. But, if he does, what is actually most likely to happen?
 
If Rufus was (as I presume he was) intelligent enough to realise the Senate had no real power, perhaps he could march on Rome. But, if he does, what is actually most likely to happen?

I guess that Rufus would have clashed with Vespasian... German Legions against Syrian Legions...
 
If Rufus decides to favour the Senate being an idealist the Praetorians would rise in revolt against him... Assuming that he manages to escape Rome Rufus could lead his loyal German Legions against the Praetorians and also against Vespasian who could make his bid to the purple in the ensuing chaos...
 
Well... Emperor Rufus fighting the Praetorians (who might have elected someone else as Emperor already) isnt chaos enough for Vespasian to intervene?
 
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