Publius Cornelius Tacitus (c. AD 56 – and AD 120 for his temporary retirement) was a Senator and historian of the Roman Empire in the days of its greatness, seeing even then the seeds of ultimate destruction.

The surviving portions of his two major works—the Annals and the Histories —examine the reigns of Tiberius, Claudius, Nero and those who reigned in the chaotic Year of the Four Emperors (AD 69). These two works span the history of the Empire from the death of Augustus in AD 14 to the years of the First Jewish-Roman War in AD 70, which gives Tacitus a familiar perspective to these times of ours. There are substantial lacunae (missing pieces) in his surviving best sellers, including a gap in the Annals that is four books long. There was a significant controversy about the missing material, which effectively was deleted from history, leaving us clueless about the period.

In addition to the near-daily columns he will contribute, Tacitus’ other writings discuss the skills of the art of oration, and the life of his father-in-law Agricola, the General responsible for much of the Roman conquest of Britain.Tacitus is considered to be one of the greatest Roman historians, documenting the Silver Age of Latin literature. He is known for the brevity and compactness of his prose, as well as for his penetrating insights into the psychology of power politics. As such, he brings a unique perspective on post-classical life and times. The Daily is honored to povide a forum for his far-reahing intellect and centuries of experience in the agora of public affairs. All of us here at Socotra House, LLC, are pleased he has agreed to submit his thoughts for your consideration.