THE FLAVIANS’ EASTERN POLICY AND KARTLI (IBERIA)

Abstract

The reign of the Flavian dynasty (AD 69–96) constituted one of the most significant stages in the stabilization of the Roman Empire and the formation of a new political and legal order. The dynasty’s founder, Titus Flavius Vespasianus (AD 69–79), assumed power after the chaos of the so-called Year of the Four Emperors, during which Nero’s death had triggered civil wars and a crisis of authority (Levick, 1999:49–51). His rise was grounded in the support of the eastern legions and provincial communities, underscoring the fact that imperial legitimacy depended not only on the sanction of the Roman Senate but also on military force and alliances with provincial elites. Vespasian strengthened state finances through fiscal reforms, introduced strict financial discipline, and employed resources both to maintain the army and to undertake large-scale public building projects (e.g., the initiation of the Colosseum’s construction). In doing so, he oriented imperial policy toward “public welfare” and the enhancement of Rome’s prestige.

The reign of his successor, Titus (AD 79–81), was brief but symbolically significant. Following the suppression of the Judean revolt, the siege of Jerusalem, and his triumph, he was perceived as a victorious commander; as emperor, he pursued policies aimed at securing popular favor. During the eruption of Mount Vesuvius and the subsequent fire in Rome, Titus presented himself as a caring and responsive ruler, thereby further consolidating loyalty to the dynasty.

The final representative of the Flavian dynasty, Domitian (AD 81–96), developed the dynasty’s legacy in a different direction. He aspired to an increasingly autocratic style of governance, emphasized the supremacy of the emperor, and often diminished the role of the Senate. Nevertheless, Domitian reinforced the state bureaucracy, expanded military infrastructure, and promoted the defense of the provinces.

The eastern policy of the Flavians sought to maintain Roman control over the provinces of Asia Minor and to ensure regional stability (Levick, 1999:74–78). Under Vespasian, particular emphasis was placed on concluding the Judean War (AD 66–70), through which Roman forces established dominant authority in Judaea with the destruction of the Jerusalem Temple. This military campaign was not only a political act of subjugation but also carried ritual and symbolic significance as a demonstration of imperial sovereignty.

At the same time, the Flavians actively cooperated with local elites in the East, aiming at the political and military integration of the provinces. Titus further developed this policy and conducted military operations in Syria and Egypt, thereby securing trade routes and promoting the economic stabilization of the provinces. Domitian, for his part, established stronger centralized control over the eastern provinces, reorganized legionary command, and encouraged provincial administration to operate in accordance with Roman law and institutional structures.

During the reign of the Flavian dynasty, Iberia (Kartli) functioned as one of the strategic kingdoms of the Caucasus, formally maintaining internal autonomy while being significantly dependent on the Roman Empire in political and dynastic matters. The Empire aimed to ensure stability in the East, particularly to balance Parthian influence, which required Iberian kings to adapt to Roman political demands, demonstrate loyalty, and participate in military and diplomatic affairs. At the same time, the Iberian monarchy retained a degree of internal order, allowing local rulers to preserve political authority and dynastic continuity.

Keywords: Roman history, emperor, Vespasian, Flavian dynasty, Judea, Eastern politics, Kartli (Iberia), ally.