Septimus Severus was the first of the soldier emperors of Ancient Rome. He rose improbably from the ranks of soldiers to become a military reformer. He was the first of the Severan emperors of Rome.
Septimus Severus was born in Africa, at Leptis Magna, on April 11th, 145. He was of Carthaginian descent. Severus was a successful soldier, and when his predecessor, Emperor Commodus died, Severus’ troops proclaimed him emperor. Under Severus, Middle Eastern provinces were represented in the Senate for the first time. Severus died in Britain fighting the Caledonians, and was succeeded by his son, Caracalla.