What little of ancient Roman history is taught in schools typically highlights Julius Cesar, Marc Antony, and Caligula. Because history lessons in the American school system are whitewashed, we never hear of these four African-born Roman emperors.
The first and most well-known was Septimius Severus. Born in present-day Libya, he increased the size of the empire so much that he died on current U.K. soil.
Clodius Albinus was born in what would be modern-day Tunisia. A mighty political figure, he was declared emperor by the military. However, his reign would be devastatingly short. Albinus died on the battlefield, against Severus’s army.
A reputable and skilled lawyer from Algeria, Marcus Opellius Macrinus, was the only emperor who didn’t come from royalty. Aemilianus came from a small island off the coast of Tunisia. He fought for peace, but ambitions for the crown overtook him. He reigned in the seat of Rome until his military overthrew him.
We already know our true history has been hidden and erased. The truth is we have always been a vital part of world history. Our history cannot be diminished because others feel inadequate. Keep learning and sharing our stories.