Pliny (or Gaius Plinius Caecilius Secundus, to give his full name) was a Roman governor in Asia Minor during the reign of Emperor Trajan. His importance in history lies in the nine books of Letters—written between 97-110—that he left behind. They provide us with a unique record of Roman administration and everyday life in the empire beginning with events from the death of Domitian (d.97 AD) to the early part of 100.
Born into a wealthy family, Pliny lost his father when he was young, and was brought up by his more famous uncle, Pliny the Elder. He spent his early adult as a lawyer but rose throught the rank becoming a praetor in 93 and a consul in 100. About 110 he was sent by Trajan as governor in Bithynia where he died three years later.
Pliny is interesting to Christians particularly because of a letter he wrote to the emperor (usually referred to as Letter 96) asking for advise about what he should do about Christians who refuse to recant on their faith and to pay homage to the emperor's statue.
Read Letter 96, and Trajan's reply ☰
©ALBERITH