Vitellius

ulus Vitellius, born in 15 AD, was the son of Lucius Vitellius, who was consul three times. Aulus himself, who spent his youth with Tiberius on the island of Capri, became consul in AD 48 and proconsul in Africa about 61. He was appointed commander of the Lower German army in 68. In the midst of the disturbances following Nero's death, he was proclaimed emperor by his troops on January 2, 69.

He marched on Italy, and on April 16 the rival emperor Otho committed suicide. Vitellius entered Rome in July, but on July 1 a commander of the eastern legions, Vespasian, had also been proclaimed emperor. After Vespasian's troops defeated Vitellius' forces, Vitellius considered abdication; but his Praetorian Guard forbade such a move, and, when troops loyal to Vespasian entered Rome on December 20, 69, Vitellius was murdered with great barbarity by his own soldiers.