Was Tiberius Successful

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To what extent was the reign of Tiberius successful? An evaluation of Tiberius’ success or otherwise is difficult. Ancient sources are quick to point to his failings, right from his accession to the ‘princeps’, which Suetonius claims only came about by default, “for want of any better choice”. Tacitus may not be as theatrical in his treatise on Tiberius, but he too was often critical of the emperor, highlighting how Tiberius was cruel and arrogant, and how Tiberius’ murder of his potential rival, Agrippa Postumus, was callous. Such subjectivity clouds much of the ancient appraisals of Tiberius. And while Scullard too notes Tiberius suffered from the family’s notorious ‘superbia’, it must be recognized, that whether he prideful or not,…show more content…
David Shotter – high praise for Tiberius’ skill as an administrator: “Tiberius’ principate… high standards were sought and generally enforced”. So too is Scullard, who says in his early reign, Tiberius’ “civil administration was, by general consent, excellent”. Policy to enable stability included extending governors’ times of office, and removing any who were corrupt or incompetent, where “those who overstepped the mark were dealt with harshly” (Shotter), Provincial stability based on diplomacy, not warfare; economic development pursued, ‘Romanisation’ enhanced through new settlements. Successfully quelled army mutiny on Rhine frontier, however, some difficulties also, as Pamela Bradley notes, in particular – revolt in N. Africa; Pontius Pilate in power in Judea too long (10 uninspiring years). Overall, positive – even Tacitus (generally anti-Tiberius, as a person) is complimentary. “An extremely efficient administrator” according to Bradley. Suggested subsequent paragraphs: Relations with the Senate – mixed successes. - His succession bluff/hesitation – “a bizzare and embarrassing fiasco” that hampered his relationship from the start, according to
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