Poppaea Sabina

Poppea Sabina (circa 30 - 65 AD) was the second wife of Nero and Roman empress from 62 AD until her death. Daughter of Titus Ollius, a praetor during the reign of Tiberius, Poppea had a mother of notable beauty and class. In 65 AD, her mother committed suicide due to the intrigues of Empress Messalina. Poppea had noble origins, including her grandfather Gaius Poppeus Sabinus, consul, and her stepfather Publius Cornelius Lentulus Scipio, consul in 24 AD. Her first husband, Rufrius Crispinus, was set aside by Nero in 51 AD and later exiled and executed. Poppea married Nero in 62 AD, but their relationship was affected by intrigues and murders. Nero, following the advice of his mother Agrippina, killed many whom he considered a threat. Poppea died in 65 AD, possibly from a miscarriage, and was deified. There are various theories surrounding her death, but recently it is believed she died from illness in 66 AD.