The Worst Roman Emperors (Encore)

Caligula

Caligula's reign is marked by a series of bizarre and extreme actions that have cemented his reputation as one of Rome's most infamous emperors. He attempted to deify himself by placing statues in temples and encouraged worship, even going so far as to try to appoint his horse as consul 1. His military ventures were equally erratic, such as his failed attempt to invade Britain, which ended with him collecting seashells as a supposed triumph 1.

He created statues of himself, which he put in roman temples and encouraged people to worship him.

--- Gary Arndt

Caligula's personal life was no less scandalous, with accusations of incest and public flaunting of power, including sleeping with senators' wives 2. His reign ended violently when he was murdered by his own guards after just five years in power 1.

   

Elagabalus

Elagabalus, another notorious Roman emperor, is remembered for his eccentric and scandalous behavior. His attempts to elevate the Syrian sun god Elagabal to the primary deity of Rome outraged traditional Roman sensibilities 3. He married a Vestal Virgin, a move considered a grave affront to Roman religious customs, and was rumored to have engaged in human sacrifices 3.

He got the throne via political maneuverings by his mother. His name comes from the fact that he was a follower of the syrian sun God, Elagabal.

--- Gary Arndt

Elagabalus's personal conduct was equally shocking, with stories of him prostituting himself in taverns and brothels. His reign ended when the Praetorian Guard, fed up with his antics, assassinated him and his mother, dragging their bodies through the streets of Rome 3.