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 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 inau… (More on 117)