Roman Emperors
Rome: Emperors secured their positions
in part through command of the Roman army, which helped to suppress
opposition to imperial rule. Emperors also garnered favor with people by
providing a stable food supply for Rome, by improving the road system to
enhance commerce and communication, and by offering an efficient system of
administration and justice.
Nero was emperor from A.D. 54-68, which spanned the latter years of
Paul's life. In his early reign Nero was generally an able ruler. The
public enjoyed his generosity. Later he violently suppressed any who
opposed him. He was responsible for the death of his mother and the
philosopher Seneca. After the fire in Rome in A.D. 64, he embarked on a
persecution of Christians.
Nero (A.D. 54-68)
Emperor in Paul's time