Commodus vs Tullus Hostilius

Commodus, upon becoming sole emperor, quickly made peace with the Marcomanni and Quadi tribes, abandoning his father Marcus Aurelius's plans to annex territory beyond the Danube. This decision was seen as a retreat from expansionist policy.

Commodus renamed Rome as Colonia Commodiana, the Roman legions as Commodianae, and the months of the year after his own names. This megalomaniacal act further strained his relationship with the Senate and traditional institutions.

Commodus was strangled in his bath by the wrestler Narcissus, following a conspiracy involving his mistress Marcia and the praetorian prefect Laetus. His death ended the Nerva-Antonine dynasty and triggered the Year of the Five Emperors.

Commodus fought as a gladiator in the Colosseum, killing animals and disabled opponents. He claimed to be the reincarnation of Hercules and demanded divine honors. This behavior alienated the Senate and military, contributing to his downfall.

Tullus Hostilius ordered the destruction of Alba Longa after a war between Rome and Alba Longa. The Alban population was forcibly relocated to Rome, and the city was razed, ending the rivalry between the two cities and increasing Rome's population and territory.

To decide the war between Rome and Alba Longa, Tullus Hostilius agreed to a combat between the Roman Horatii triplets and the Alban Curiatii triplets. The sole surviving Horatius killed the three Curiatii, giving Rome victory and dominance over Alba Longa.

Tullus Hostilius led a war against the Sabines, expanding Roman territory. The war resulted in the annexation of Sabine lands and the incorporation of the Sabine population into the Roman state, strengthening Rome's military and economic position.

Tullus Hostilius is credited with building the Curia Hostilia, the original Senate house in Rome. This building served as the meeting place for the Roman Senate for centuries, becoming a central institution of Roman government.

According to Roman tradition, Tullus Hostilius was killed by a lightning bolt sent by Jupiter after he neglected religious rites and attempted to perform a forbidden ritual. His death ended his reign and was seen as divine punishment for his impiety.