In 194 AD, the Roman Empire was experiencing a period of political instability following the death of Emperor Commodus. This year marked the beginning of a power struggle among various claimants to the throne, leading to a civil war known as the Year of the Five Emperors. During this time, Septimius Severus emerged as a significant figure, eventually becoming the emperor after defeating his rivals. His rise to power marked the start of the Severan Dynasty, which would influence the empire's governance and military strategies for years to come.