Events By place Roman Empire Trajan subdues a Judean revolt, 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 will reign until 138, succeeds him. Hadrian, a Spaniard like Trajan, is an excellent officer who has had a brilliant career. He is well-cultured man, who as Emperor inaugurates a… (More on 117)