Famous Italian historical diplomat, historian and philosopher, Niccolò Machiavelli, regarded Marcus Aurelius as the last of the Five Good Emperors, who ruled in a golden age for the Roman Empire between AD 96 and AD 180, ending with the death of Marcus Aurelius.

Aurelius guided the Roman Empire through many potential disasters. He helped dispel Germanic invaders, provided aid to Romans during a time of famine and guided his people through the Antonine Plague.

Aurelius is well known for his philosophical leanings, making him appear more stoic in comparison to previous emperors. He spent a large amount of time on his Meditations, which is filled with stoic philosophy and examinations on personal development and mindfulness. The Meditations can still be applied to our daily lives today.