PER TINAX, Roman emperor, was horn, according to Dio Cassius, at Alba Pompeia, a Roman colony of Liguria, Aug. 1, 126 A.D. He received a good education. and, entering the military service, rose through the various grades till he obtained the command of the first legion, at the head of which he signalized himself in Maeda and Noricum against the native tribes. In 179 he was chosen consul, aided to repress the revolt of Avitus in Syria, and was governor successively of the provinces of Mmsia, Dacia, and Syria. Being sent by the emperor Commodes to take the command of the turbulent legions in Britain, these troops, against his will, proclaimed him emperor; on which he solicited to be recalled, and was appointed proconsul of Africa, prefect of Rome, and consul (a second time) in 192. On tbe death of Commodes, his assassins almost forced Pertinax to accept of the purple, which with great hesitation ; but in spite of his promise of a large donation, he was unable to gain over the praetorian guard. His accession was, however, hailed with delight by the senate and people, who
were rejoiced to have, as ruler, an able captain, instead of a ferocious debauchee; and Pertinax, encouraged by this favorable reception, announced his intention of carrying. Out au' extensive series of reforms, having reference chiefly to the army, iu which he hoped to re-establish the ancient Roman discipline. Unfortunately for his reforms and himself, he was attacked by a band of the rebellious praetorians, two months and 27 days after his accession; and disdaining to flee, was slain, and his head carried about the streets of Rome in triumph. From his history, nothing can be gathered respecting his character and talents (except in military affairs); but.the respect and esteem in which lie held by the senate and people of Rome argue well in favor of his disposition.