Events By place Roman Empire February 25—Roman emperor Hadrian adopts Antoninus Pius on condition that Antoninus adopt Marcus Annius Aurelius Verus. On Hadrian's death, the Senate, which had been stripped of power during his reign, refuses to deify him. Some speak of declaring him a tyrant, cancelling his acts. July 10—Antoninus Pius succeeds Hadrian as Roman emperor. Construction begins on the Theater of Philadelphia (Amman).… (More on 138)