Septimius Severus

Septimius Severus (146–211 A.D.), a Roman emperor, ruled 193–211. He was the first emperor to rely solely on his own military authority as the basis for assuming imperial office. A distinguished soldier, Severus was proclaimed emperor by his legions after the death of Emperor Commodus. He forcibly put down rival claimants and rewarded his soldiers for their support with high government positions. The Senate was opened for the first time to members from Middle Eastern provinces and was made completely subservient to Severus.

Severus was born of Carthaginian ancestry in North Africa. He died in Britain while on a campaign against the Caledonians. His son Caracalla succeeded him.