It's challenging to determine the "stupidest" thing done by a Roman Emperor, as different historians and scholars may have varying opinions on what constitutes the most foolish or detrimental actions. However, one widely cited example is the reign of the Roman Emperor Caligula (Gaius Julius Caesar Augustus Germanicus), who ruled from 37 AD to 41 AD.
Caligula is often remembered for his erratic and tyrannical behavior, and some of his actions are considered extreme and absurd. One notable incident was when he declared war on the god Neptune. According to historical accounts, Caligula ordered his soldiers to march to the seashore and, in a show of defiance, had them collect seashells as "spoils of war" to symbolize his victory over the sea god.
Other eccentric actions attributed to Caligula include his alleged appointment of his horse, Incitatus, as a consul, and extravagant spending on luxurious projects that strained the Roman treasury. His reign was marked by a series of political purges, brutal executions, and an increasing level of megalomania, leading to his assassination in 41 AD.
It's important to note that historical accounts from this period are often based on limited and sometimes biased sources, and some stories about Caligula's actions may be exaggerated or politically motivated. Nevertheless, his reign is frequently cited as an example of a tumultuous and tyrannical period in Roman history.
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