On 24 January 41, following the dramatic assassination of Emperor Caligula by officers of the Praetorian Guard, Claudius, his uncle, was unexpectedly thrust into the role of Roman Emperor.
The transition marked a significant turning point, as Claudius, long underestimated due to his physical disabilities and perceived ineptitude, emerged from the shadows of imperial obscurity.
Hidden in fear after Caligula’s murder, Claudius was discovered by the guards, who proclaimed him emperor in a calculated move to stabilise the chaos.
His reign, though initially met with scepticism, would eventually bring a period of administrative reform and territorial expansion, defying expectations of his rule.
