What Famous Historical Figures Actually Looked Like

Published on 07/24/2019
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Trajan

Born in September 53 AD, Trajan was in power as the emperor of Rome from 98 AD until his death in August 117 AD. The Roman Senate declared him optimus princeps, which means “the best ruler.” Trajan is remembered for being among the most successful soldier-emperors in history. It probably helps that he led Rome in one of its greatest military expansions ever. Around the time he died, the empire had achieved its maximum territorial extent.

Trajan

Trajan

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What Trajan Really Looked Like

The facial reconstruction of Trajan was based on a marble bust, which was unearthed by archeologists. They estimated the bust was made in the year 113 AD because of its quality, which makes it look like the artist saw the emperor in person. They discovered the statue dismembered into more than 356 pieces because of an earthquake years ago. Thanks to the well-made marble bust, Trajan’s reconstruction is very real looking.

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What Trajan Really Looked Like

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