The period of AD 107–8 stands as a notable moment in the broader context of Roman and world history. While not widely recognized for a singular, defining event, these years were marked by important military and political developments that played a part in shaping the ancient world. The events from this period can offer us glimpses of the Roman Empire's ongoing expansion and consolidation of power, as well as the gradual fading of earlier, legendary figures and cultures.

The Roman Empire under Trajan

In AD 107–8, the Roman Empire was under the rule of Emperor Trajan, who had ascended to the throne in AD 98. His reign is remembered for its military conquests and significant territorial expansion. The Roman Empire reached its greatest territorial extent during his rule, especially with the conquest of Dacia (modern-day Romania) in AD 106, which brought substantial wealth and resources into the empire.

Though the conquest of Dacia was completed shortly before AD 107, the immediate aftermath of the conquest would have reverberated throughout the empire. The newly acquired province would require Romanization efforts, military presence, and infrastructure development, marking a transitional period in Roman history. The Dacian Wars, which had begun under Trajan’s predecessor, Emperor Domitian, came to a close, symbolizing the end of one chapter in Roman imperial military campaigns.

The Decline of the Parthian Empire

Meanwhile, in the East, the Parthian Empire was facing internal unrest and external pressure from the Romans. The period of AD 107–8 is significant in terms of the shifting dynamics between the Parthians and the Romans, with the Parthian Empire entering a phase of decline. Trajan’s ambitions extended toward the East, with ideas of conquering and annexing parts of Parthia, but the Parthian Empire was not yet fully defeated during this time.

Although the military confrontations in the East were not resolved by AD 107–8, it marked the beginning of Roman influence extending into Parthian territory. Trajan’s ambitions toward the Parthian Empire would eventually culminate in his invasion of Armenia and Mesopotamia in the years to come. shutdown123