166.* Great plague throughout the Roman Empire.
War begins between Rome and the Germanic tribes of the Marcomanni and Quadi, which had invaded Roman territories.
168. The Marcomanni retire into their own country, but M. Aurelius pursues his preparations against them, in order to safeguard Italy.
169. Sudden death of Verus, while in his chariot, on his journey to Rome.
174. Aurelius makes a short visit to Rome; when he rejoins the army the German tribes are signally defeated; this gives rise to the fable of the "Thundering Legion."
177. Persecution of the Christians in Gaul begins; Pothinus, Bishop of Lyons, suffers martyrdom. See "Persecution of the Christians in Gaul," iii, [246].
180. Death of Marcus Aurelius; his son, Commodus, succeeds him on the Roman throne. See "Beginning of Rome's Decline: Commodus," iii, [263].
183. Lucilla, the sister of Commodus, having conspired against her brother, is exiled from Rome; Commodus vents his rage on the senators.
184. The Caledonians break through the wall on the northern borders of Britain; they are driven back by Ulpius Marcellus.
185. Marcia, the favorite of Commodus, protects the Christians.