The 170s Decade: Key Events and Notable Figures
The 170s decade spanned from January 1, 170, to December 31, 179. This period was marked by significant events in the Roman Empire and across Asia, including military campaigns, philosophical writings, and cultural developments.
Major Events
During the 170s, several notable occurrences took place:
170
- The Suebian tribes of the Marcomanni invaded Northern Italy, destroying a Roman army near Carnuntum.
- Emperor Marcus Aurelius began writing his Meditations.
- The Costoboci ravaged Thrace and destroyed the temple of the Eleusinian Mysteries.
171
- A new military command was formed by Marcus Aurelius to counter the Marcomanni.
- A peace treaty was signed with the Quadi and Sarmatian Iazyges.
172
- Marcus Aurelius crossed the Danube and subdued the Marcomanni, establishing a pact with the Germanic tribes.
- A significant miracle occurred in Moravia, helping the Roman army against the Quadi.
173
- The governor of Syria, Avidius Cassius, suppressed an agrarian revolt.
174
- Empress Faustina the Younger accompanied her husband on military campaigns.
175
- Marcus Aurelius dealt with a rebellion led by Avidius Cassius.
176
- Commodus, son of Marcus Aurelius, was granted significant military titles.
177
- A systematic persecution of Christians began in Rome.
- The Second Marcomannic War commenced against the Quadi and the Marcomanni.
178
- Emperor Marcus Aurelius and Commodus continued their military efforts against the Marcomanni.
179
- The construction of the Roman fort Castra Regina at Regensburg began.
Notable Figures
Several significant individuals emerged during the 170s:
- Marcus Aurelius, Roman Emperor and philosopher.
- Caerellius Priscus, governor of Roman Britain.
Births and Deaths
This decade saw the birth of influential figures, including:
- Guo Jia, Chinese politician (d. 207).
- Herodian, Roman historian (d. 240).
- Julia Domna, Roman empress consort (d. 217).
Notable deaths included:
- Alexander of Abonoteichus, Greek mystic (b. AD 105).
- Avidius Cassius, Roman general and usurper (b. AD 130).
The 170s decade was a pivotal period in ancient history, characterized by military conflicts, philosophical advancements, and the rise of important figures.