From the History Collage show on historypodcasters.com, a look at the four Julias who helped rule the Empire during the Severan years.

It's time to celebrate the great literary achievements of the Romans. And, by the way, Merry Christmas to you all.

Alexander Severus was a very nice young man. His mother was politically astute and determined that her son would be an excellent emperor. If only the times had been different.

Marcus Aurelius had a son who ruined the good work of the dynasty. Septimius Severus had TWO sons. They were no better!

Lucius Septimius Severus was energetic, capable and focussed on running a fair and stable empire. Unfortunately he was also rather too keen on warfare and totally incapable of managing his highly dysfunctional family!

In the year 193AD five men separately lay claim to the top job in Rome.  After the best candidate is treacherously let down by the Praetorian Guard, the next man buys the throne from them.  The Praetorians, though, are about to discover that their luck has run out!

In the year 193AD five men separately lay claim to the top job in Rome.  After the best candidate is treacherously let down by the Praetorian Guard, the next man buys the throne from them.  The Praetorians, though, are about to discover that their luck has run out!

Poor Marcus Aurelius. Having spent most of his reign fighting the barbarians he dies when the job is just about complete... and his primary legacy is his unhinged son!

Bridges aqueducts, concrete and a new calendar!

"Don't waste time wondering what a good man is: be one." Marcus Aurelius's thoughts on how to live virtuously have stood the test of time.