Map of Roman dominions in the time of Emperor Trajan, 98-117 A.D./C.E. Roman empire. Click here to enlarge.
The Roman Empire reached its greatest territorial extent under Emperor Trajan (reigned 98-117 A.D.), an era marked by military conquest, monumental construction, and effective administration. A skilled soldier-emperor, Trajan launched two major campaigns against the Dacian Kingdom (modern Romania), securing vast wealth from Dacian gold mines. He later expanded into the Parthian Empire, annexing Armenia and Mesopotamia and briefly giving Rome a coastline on the Persian Gulf.
Trajan was also a prolific builder whose projects reshaped Rome. His Forum and Market of Trajan, constructed with spoils from Dacia, were architectural marvels of the age, while Trajan's Column provides a detailed sculptural record of the Dacian Wars. Renowned for his moderate and just rule, he maintained excellent relations with the Senate and implemented the alimenta, a welfare program to support poor children in Italy. His death in 117 A.D. marked the end of aggressive expansion; his successor, Hadrian, consolidated the vast but overextended empire.
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