Optimus Princeps

[Pangur Bán]

Constantine probably wasn't the "best," but certainly the greatest emperor in terms of historical influence. And still, quite frankly, he was one of the best emperors (it's sad, Xen, that all our debates haven't had any impact on you ).

Severus was a great emperor, and should be on the poll. Trajan is overrated ... he is an appealing military figure, but otherwise average. If you're excluding the medieval Roman emperors (like Heraclius), then Augustus probably should get the credit, as he was pretty darm great.

 

[Reno]

Augustus and Marcus Aurelius.

 

[LLXerxes]

Augustus or Hadrian, probably Augustus.

 

[sydhe]

I vote for Augustus.

Let us not forget Antoninus Pius, who reigned for 23 stable, peaceful years at the peak of the Pax Romana. Sometimes living in uninteresting times is a good thing.