Browse Historical Events by Month: What Happened in January?

Birth of the Roman historian and politician, Gaius Sallustius Crispus (Sallust).

Birth of the Roman poet and philosopher, Gaius Maecenas.

Octavian (later known as Augustus) celebrates a triple triumph in Rome for his victories in the Battle of Actium.

Gaius Julius Caesar Octavianus is granted the title "Augustus" by the Roman Senate, marking the beginning of the Roman Empire.

The Roman general Drusus completes the conquest of Raetia (modern-day Switzerland and Bavaria).

Jesus is presented at the Temple in Jerusalem in accordance with Jewish law.

The day considered by some scholars as the possible date of the birth of Jesus Christ.

Emperor Augustus renews the law against bachelors and childless marriages in Rome.

The Roman Senate and people honor Caesar Augustus with the title "Pater Patriae" (Father of the Country).

Herod the Great dies in Jericho, according to historical calculations by some scholars.

The first day of the Julian calendar in the Roman Empire, inaugurated by Emperor Augustus.

Birth of the Roman historian Tacitus.

According to some Christian traditions, the Baptism of Jesus Christ in the Jordan River occurs.

The Roman Senate confers upon Claudius the title "Pater Patriae" (Father of the Country).

The Roman Emperor Nero orders the construction of the Domus Aurea (Golden House) after the Great Fire of Rome.

Roman legions in Germania Superior proclaim their commander, Vitellius, as emperor.

Birth of the Roman historian and senator, Gaius Cornelius Tacitus.

Trajan becomes Roman emperor following the death of Nerva.

The Roman Empire defeats the Marcomanni in the Battle of Sirmium under the reign of Marcus Aurelius.

Emperor Caracalla grants Roman citizenship to all free inhabitants of the Roman Empire.