Nero's reign is marked by the first major persecution of Christians, a scapegoat he used to deflect blame for the great fire of Rome. Contrary to popular belief, he was not present in the city during the blaze and instead rushed back to assist. His extravagant construction of the Domus Aurea, built on the ruins of the fire, fueled public outrage as it came at the expense of heavy taxation and the suffering of his people.
