Emperor Nero, who ruled from 54 to 68 AD, is one of the most notorious figures in Roman history, known for his extravagance, cruelty, and artistic pretensions. While Nero initially gained the support of the Praetorian Guard through the influence of his mother, Agrippina the Younger, his reign eventually turned sour. Nero’s erratic actions, including the murder of his own mother and wife, as well as his persecution of Christians, alienated both the Senate and the Roman people.

By 68 AD, Nero’s rule had become increasingly unpopular, and the Praetorian Guard, which had once been his loyal protectors, began to shift its allegiance. The Guard's loyalty was now up for sale, and it was the Praetorians who ultimately declared for the rebellion led by Galba, the governor of Hispania. As Nero's supporters dwindled, the Guard turned on their emperor, who eventually committed suicide. Nero's fall marked the end of the Julio-Claudian dynasty and highlighted the vulnerability of emperors who lost the favor of the Praetorians.

 Vitellius: The Praetorian Guard’s Puppet Emperor

The tumultuous "Year of the Four Emperors" (69 AD) saw a series of rapid and brutal changes in leadership, and one of the most striking examples of Praetorian influence occurred during the rise of Emperor Vitellius. Vitellius, a general and member of the aristocracy, was proclaimed emperor by the Praetorian Guard after the death of Emperor Otho. His rise was largely due to the backing of the Guard, which had grown increasingly accustomed to wielding power over the imperial throne.

Despite his Praetorian-backed ascent, Vitellius was a weak ruler, and his reign quickly unraveled. He was ultimately defeated by forces loyal to Vespasian, who had also been supported by the Praetorian Guard. Vitellius was captured and executed, but his brief rule epitomized the volatility of the Praetorians' influence, as they were able to elevate him to the throne but equally swift to abandon him when it suited their interests shutdown123