Pliny the Elder

Date of Birth: 23 AD

Zodiac Sign: Unknown

Date of Death: August 25, 79 AD

Biography

Pliny the Elder, born Gaius Plinius Secundus, was a Roman author, naturalist, and natural philosopher who lived during the early Roman Empire. He is renowned for his encyclopedic work, “Naturalis Historia” (Natural History), which is one of the largest single works to have survived from the Roman Empire and covers a vast array of topics including astronomy, geography, botany, zoology, medicine, and mineralogy. Pliny was also a military commander and provincial governor, serving under emperors like Vespasian and Titus. His curiosity and dedication to learning were unparalleled, and he amassed a wealth of knowledge that still influences various fields today. Tragically, Pliny died during the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79 while attempting to rescue friends and observe the phenomenon more closely.

5 Interesting Facts about Pliny the Elder

1. Pliny the Elder adopted his nephew, Pliny the Younger, who also became a famous author and lawyer.

2. His “Naturalis Historia” consists of 37 books and is considered one of the largest single works to survive from the Roman Empire.

3. Pliny served as a naval and army commander in the early Roman Empire.

4. He was known for his insatiable curiosity and methodical approach to gathering knowledge, often staying up late into the night to read and write.

5. Pliny the Elder died during the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79, which also destroyed the cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Pliny the Elder

1. “True glory consists in doing what deserves to be written, in writing what deserves to be read.”

2. “In these matters the only certainty is that nothing is certain.”

3. “Hope is the pillar that holds up the world. Hope is the dream of a waking man.”

4. “The only certainty is that nothing is certain.”

5. “Home is where the heart is.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Pliny the Elder’s wealth is not well-documented in modern terms. However, as a high-ranking officer and provincial governor in the Roman Empire, he would have been considered quite affluent for his time.

Children

Pliny the Elder did not have biological children. He adopted his nephew, Pliny the Younger, who went on to become a notable author and lawyer in his own right.