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Sextus Afranius BurrusRoman military leader and statesman
Country:
 Italy |
Content:
- Early Life and Career
- Reign of Nero
- Mentor and Co-Regent
- Moderate and Pragmatic Policies
- Suspicions of Conspiracy
- Mysterious Death
- Legacy
Early Life and Career
Lucius Afranius Burrus, a Roman equestrian, began his career in civil service, handling financial matters for Empress Livia, Tiberius, and Claudius. He gained favor with Agrippina the Younger, who played a crucial role in his appointment as Praetorian Guard Prefect in 52 AD.
Reign of Nero
After Claudius' death, Burrus and Agrippina secured Nero's succession as Emperor. As Praetorian Prefect, Burrus commanded the only military force in Rome, ensuring their support for Nero.
Mentor and Co-Regent
For the first six years of Nero's reign, Burrus and the philosopher Seneca became the de facto rulers of the Empire. Burrus, responsible for military and public order, complemented Seneca's influence on policy and education.
Moderate and Pragmatic Policies
Burrus and Seneca's reign was marked by moderation. They avoided suppressing the Senate or neglecting grain supply to the capital. They also attempted to channel Nero's artistic pursuits in a more respectable direction.
Suspicions of Conspiracy
Burrus faced allegations of conspiracy against Nero twice, but no concrete evidence existed. However, it is believed that he did not consent to Nero's assassination of Agrippina in 59 AD.
Mysterious Death
Burrus died in 62 AD, allegedly from a throat tumor, but poisoning by Nero is also a possibility. Nero had reasons to desire his death, particularly Burrus's opposition to his divorce from Octavia.
Legacy
After Burrus's death, Nero appointed Fenius Rufus and Sophonius Tigellinus as Praetorian Prefects, marking a shift towards a more oppressive regime. Seneca resigned, and Nero's policies became increasingly tyrannical. Burrus's damaged hand, which Agrippina mocked as "crippled," remains part of his historical legacy.
