Events By place Roman Empire Trajan subdues a Jewish revolt (the Kitos War), then falls seriously ill, leaving Hadrian in command of the east. On his death bed, Trajan adopts Hadrian and designates him as his successor. August 9 — Emperor Trajan dies, leaving the Roman Empire at its maximal territorial extent. Hadrian, who'll reign until 138, succeeds him. Hadrian, a Spaniard like Trajan,'s an excellent officer who's had a brilliant career. He's well-cultured man, who as Emperor inau… (More on 117)