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Vitellius, Aulus AD15-69
Roman emperor

A favourite of Tiberius, Caligula, Claudius and Nero, he was proconsul in Africa (c.61AD) and was appointed by Galba to the command of the legions on the Lower Rhine (68). He was proclaimed emperor at Colonia Agrippinensis (Cologne) in 69, and ended the reign of Otho. Many of his soldiers deserted when Vespasian was proclaimed emperor in Alexandria. Vitellius was defeated in two battles, dragged through the streets of Rome, and murdered. The only positive aspect of his rule was his initiation of free speech.