Nerva is a Roman family name. It literally means 'strength' having been derived from the Latin word nervus.
The most famous Roman with the family name Nerva historically was Marcus Cocceius Nerva. He was one of the emperors of the great Roman Empire. In fact he is most remembered for forsaking tradition and choosing his successor based on capabilities and merit rather than familial connections. In fact this practice eventually led to a series of Emperors that were called the 'Five Good Emperors'.
The previous emperor Domitian was a tyrant and paid for his reign of terror with his life. Shortly after his death Nerva was elected emperor on the 18th of September 1996. Nerva's reign was marked by visionary measures like amnesty for exiles, release for prisoners convicted of treason and restoration of confiscated property.
The most famous Roman with the family name Nerva historically was Marcus Cocceius Nerva. He was one of the emperors of the great Roman Empire. In fact he is most remembered for forsaking tradition and choosing his successor based on capabilities and merit rather than familial connections. In fact this practice eventually led to a series of Emperors that were called the 'Five Good Emperors'.
The previous emperor Domitian was a tyrant and paid for his reign of terror with his life. Shortly after his death Nerva was elected emperor on the 18th of September 1996. Nerva's reign was marked by visionary measures like amnesty for exiles, release for prisoners convicted of treason and restoration of confiscated property.
