1. Overview
Titus Aurelius Fulvus was a distinguished Roman senator who was active during the reign of Domitian. He is primarily recognized in history as the father of the future Roman Emperor Antoninus Pius, a connection that significantly elevated his family's standing.
2. Family Background
Titus Aurelius Fulvus was the son of a prominent Roman figure, also named Titus Aurelius Fulvus, who achieved distinction by serving as a consul twice. This elder Fulvus was further elevated to the patrician class, a status indicating noble lineage and significant influence within Roman society.
3. Marriage and Descendants
Titus Aurelius Fulvus married Arria Fadilla, the daughter of Gnaeus Arrius Antoninus, a Roman consul who was also a friend of the renowned historian Pliny the Younger. Their marriage produced a single child, a son named Titus Aurelius Fulvus Boionius Arrius Antoninus. This son, who would later ascend to become the Roman Emperor Antoninus Pius, was born on September 19, 86 AD, in Lanuvium, a town in Italy (modern-day Lanuvio). Following the early death of his father, Titus Aurelius Fulvus, his son was raised under the guardianship of his maternal grandfather, Gnaeus Arrius Antoninus.
4. Career
As a distinguished Roman senator, Titus Aurelius Fulvus held a significant public office during his career. He served as an ordinary consul in 89 AD, sharing the magistracy with his colleague, Marcus Asinius Atratinus. This role placed him among the highest officials of the Roman Republic and Empire.
5. Historical Assessment
Historical records, particularly the Augustan History, describe Titus Aurelius Fulvus as a "stern and upright man." His life was cut short by an early death, a significant event that necessitated his young son, Titus Aurelius Fulvus Boionius Arrius Antoninus, being raised under the care of his maternal grandfather. This circumstance shaped the early life and upbringing of the future Emperor Antoninus Pius.