The Rise and Dramatic Fall of Sejanus

Early Career

Sejanus's early career was marked by his rapid rise within the Praetorian Guard. Gary Arndt explains that Sejanus came from an equestrian class family, which was above the common plebeians but below the senatorial class. His father, Lucius Strabo, was the head of the Praetorian Guard before him, and Sejanus was appointed as joint commander with his father by Tiberius. When his father became the governor of Egypt, Sejanus consolidated his power and increased the size of the guard to 12,000 soldiers 1.

Sejanus became a trusted confidant of Tiberius and his chief advisor, eventually becoming the de facto number two person in Rome.

--- Gary Arndt

Sejanus's influence grew as he became Tiberius's partner in his toils, and he was sent with Tiberius's son, Drusus, to quell an uprising 1.

   

Power Accumulation

Sejanus's power accumulation involved strategic relationships and political maneuvers. Gary Arndt describes how Sejanus slowly gained power and influence over the years, making numerous enemies along the way. His social climbing and power acquisition were marked by calculated moves that eventually led to his downfall in a spectacular and disastrous day 2.

Over the years, Sejanus slowly gained power and influence, as well as a host of enemies throughout Rome.

--- Gary Arndt

Sejanus's story serves as a cautionary tale of ambition and the volatile nature of political power in ancient Rome 2.