How Did Tiberius Continue His Reign

Augustus’ stepson Tiberius was well into middle age when he was confirmed as Rome’s princeps. He followed Augustus’ lead and repeatedly declined the recognition as head of state so he would not look too anxious for power. He finally accepted when he saw the Senate’s exasperation and he was confirmed as the head of state. Tiberius chose his nephew Germanicus as his heir instead of his son Drusus, but the death of Germanicus left him no choice but to make Drusus as the new heir. When Drusus died, Tiberius became despondent and left Rome for the island of Capri where he indulged in vice with other people.

In 31 BC, Tiberius brutally suppressed a rebellion led by the commander of the Praetorian Guard, Lucius Aelius Sejanus. Tiberius had the commander’s