<DIV><p>A rare biography of the Roman Emperor who presided as the Empire was at its largest extent, ahead of imminent decline.</p><p>Adopted son of Marcus Aurelius, Septimius Severus (AD 145?211) waged war against the Parthians, sacked Ctesiphon, extended the empire in United Kingdom, reinforced Hadrian's Wall, and finally died in York, England, cursing the English weather. His sons went on to found the Severan Dynasty.</p></div>