8Trajan

Spanish by birth, Marcus Ulpius Trajan was the first Roman emperor of non-Italian origin. And he sure did go on to become one of the most outstanding emperors of ancient Rome. His reign saw Rome reach new heights of development, and a considerable expansion of the empire.

Trajan had served as a soldier under his father’s reign. However, he was not just an emperor with a solid military background, he was also known for his wisdom and dignity. His first priority was always the welfare of the common people. He provided free grain to the poor and even set up funds for poor people and children. He also facilitated many popular public developments such as new roads and harbors. Needless to say, the reign of Emperor Trajan was a glittering one.