The Roman Empire was one of the greatest and most successful empires in all of history. It had a vast and powerful reach, ruling over a large part of the world for an incredibly long period of time. As a result, many events and decisions that occurred during the Roman Empire are still studied today as they can provide an insight into how powerful and successful they were. One of these events is the decision by Roman Emperor Hadrian to appoint Marcus Antonius, also known as Mark Antony, as his successor.
Hadrian was one of the most successful Roman Emperors, ruling from 117–138 AD. He is known for his innovative methods of strengthening Rome’s infrastructure, construction of walls that would soon be known as Hadrian’s Wall, and of course, his appointment of Mark Antony as his successor. So why did Hadrian choose Marcus Antonius for the role?
Military prowess
Although he is mostly known as the lover of Cleopatra, it is important to remember that Mark Antony was a successful military commander and politician. As the senior partner of the Second Triumvirate, he was an able military commander and tactician who had experience dealing with the concerns of Rome and its provinces. He was also an experienced statesman who had the ability to govern in Rome, something that was a valuable asset in light of the turbulent political environment of the time.
Furthermore, Antony held the same social status as Hadrian himself, which likely made it easier for Hadrian to extend the offer of full and complete sovereignty should he accept. Antony’s talent and pedigree made him the ideal candidate for the position, and Hadrian knew that by appointing him, he would be able to secure the future stability of Rome.
Cultural Influence
Another factor contributing to Hadrian’s choice of Marcus Antonius as his successor was the importance of cultural influence. As an experienced statesman, Antony had a wide network of connections and a strong reputation among his peers. This not only made him a good candidate for the position, but also knowing that he had strong connections to the upper echelons of Roman society would be beneficial should he ascend to the throne.
Hadrian wanted a ruler who not only held the same values that he and the Roman Empire did, but also one who could bring a certain degree of respectability to the role. Antony’s prominence in the Roman educated circles provided him with a degree of credibility that would be beneficial as ruler, and also as someone who could bridge the divide between the various classes of Roman society.
Compliance
Despite his prestige, Marcus Antonius was a compliant person and did not cause too much trouble for Hadrian. Even after the death of Augustus, his predecessor, Antony did not challenge Hadrian’s control or rule. This is likely one of the reasons why Hadrian chose him as his successor as he knew that Antony would not create any problems or disturbances.
Furthermore, both men also shared a similar view on certain societal issues, such as the need to maintain peace and order in the empire, which further highlighted their compatibility. By letting Antony become his successor, Hadrian was also sending out a strong message that he was willing to cooperate with those who shared his ideals, which was an important step in solidifying his control of the Roman Empire.
Diplomacy
As a successful statesman, Marcus Antonius had a strong reputation for being a good diplomat, and this is another factor that likely influenced Hadrian’s decision. By appointing Antony as his successor, Hadrian was sending out a clear message to the foreign powers in the region that they were welcome in Rome, and that Rome was a diplomatic and open place. The message resonated, and it was not long before Rome was seen as a major diplomatic power in the ancient world.
Marcus Antonius’s diplomatic skills and prowess were second to none, and his appointment was likely seen as a major coup for Rome in terms of foreign relations. This, in turn, allowed Hadrian access to greater resources and support should he need it, as well as providing opportunities for alliances and trade agreements.
Economic Benefits
Antony was also an experienced and competent financial planner, and this was an attribute that excited Hadrian as Emperor. As a ruler, he wanted to ensure that Rome was lucrative, economically prosperous and fiscally responsible, and Antony was the perfect candidate for the role.
He had a strong understanding of how to manage financial resources, a talent that was incredibly valuable in a period of economic upheaval. As such, Antony was seen as the ideal “banker” for Rome and his financial prowess meant that it was a great decision for Hadrian to appoint him as his successor.
Conclusion
Hadrian was an incredibly successful emperor in his own right, but it was his decision to appoint Marcus Antonius as his successor that helped of Rome to reach even greater heights. Antony had the necessary abilities and skills to be a successful ruler, and he also had a strong reputation among Rome’s educated elites. His diplomatic identity, financial aptitude and military prowess made him an ideal ruler for the period, and his appointment helped to cement Hadrian’s control of the Roman Empire.
