Marcus Ulpius Trajanus, commonly known as Trajan, was a Roman emperor who ruled from 98 to 117 AD. He is celebrated for his military conquests, particularly the successful campaigns against the Dacians, which expanded the Roman Empire to its greatest territorial extent. Trajan is also known for his extensive public building programs, including the famous Trajan's Market and Trajan's Column in Rome. Trajan was born in Italica, in present-day Spain, and was the first emperor from the provinces. His reign is often regarded as a high point in the history of the Roman Empire, marked by relative peace and prosperity known as the Pax Romana. He was also recognized for his philanthropic policies, which aimed to improve the welfare of the Roman citizens.