When people talk about successful Roman emperors, the name of Vespasian rarely comes to mind. But he definitely deserves a spot among the greatest. He founded the Flavian dynasty. While the reign of the dynasty was short lived, between 69 AD and 96 AD, the dynasty helped restore stability to an empire on its knees.
The dynasty rose to power during the civil war of 69, known as the Year of the Four Emperors. Several historic, economic, and military events took place during the reign of the Flavians. For example, they issued reforms that created a stable enough empire to last well into the 3rd century. Sadly, their background as a military dynasty led to further marginalization of the Senate, and a conclusive move away from the princeps, or fist citizen, and toward imperator, or emperor.
During the reign of the dynasty, much money was spent on public works and the restoration and beautification of Rome. One of the biggest and most popular tourist attractions in Rome was built by the dynasty. Vespasian was the one that started the construction of the Colosseum, and it was finished by his successor and heir Titus. Domitian, his other heir, made further modifications. The dynasty also built a new forum, the Temple of Peace, and the public baths.
