Marcus Aurelius was chosen by Emporer Hadrian to be his eventual successor. In 161, Aurelius took control of the Roman Empire along with his brother Verus. War and disease threatened Rome on all sides. Aurelius held his territory, but was weakened as a ruler after the death of his brother Verus. His son Commodus later became co-ruler in 177, only three years before Aurelius died on March 17, 180. "You have power over your mind - not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength." - Marcus Aurelius This is the descriptive and concise biography of Marcus Aurelius.