Galba (68 - 69 CE)

Galba (Spring 68 - 15 January 69 CE). Servius Sulpicius Galba was proclaimed emperor by his troops during the period of disturbances prior to Nero's death. Upon confirmation by the Senate, he proceeded to Rome. He was the first emperor of the year of the Four Emperors. In the meantime, on January 2, 69, Vitellius was proclaimed emperor by his troops of the legions of Lower Germany. In Rome, Otho conspired against Galba and had him assassinated in the Forum on January 15. Galba was extremely unpopular due to his strictness, cruelty, and dislike of pomp and display.