Periander vs Pertinax

Periander introduced a standardized silver coinage for Corinth, replacing earlier barter systems. The coins featured the Pegasus symbol and became widely accepted across Greece, boosting Corinth's economy and establishing it as a major commercial center.

Periander oversaw the construction of the Diolkos, a paved trackway across the Isthmus of Corinth that allowed ships to be transported overland. This engineering feat connected the Ionian and Aegean seas, facilitating trade and military transport, and remained in use for over 600 years.

According to Herodotus, Periander killed his wife Melissa in a fit of rage, possibly by throwing a footstool at her. He later consulted the Oracle of the Dead to find a lost object, and Melissa's ghost revealed its location, demanding proper burial rites. This act tarnished his reputation.

Periander exiled his son Lycophron to Corcyra after the son refused to speak to him following Melissa's murder. When Periander later sought reconciliation, the Corcyraeans killed Lycophron to avoid conflict. This family tragedy deepened Periander's isolation and harsh rule.

Pertinax attempted to restore discipline to the Praetorian Guard and reform the imperial finances. He reduced taxes, sold off Commodus's extravagant possessions, and tried to curb corruption. These reforms alienated the Praetorian Guard, who expected a large donative.

Pertinax was proclaimed Roman emperor by the Praetorian Guard after the assassination of Commodus. He was the son of a freedman and had a distinguished military and political career. His accession was initially welcomed by the Senate and people as a return to good governance.

After only 87 days in power, Pertinax was assassinated by the Praetorian Guard. The Guard stormed the imperial palace and killed him because he refused to pay them the promised donative. His death triggered a civil war and the auctioning of the empire to Didius Julianus.