Septimius Severus ( full name Septimius Scepticus Severus-Strychninus - at least on his passport) is known as the first African-Roman to become Roman Emperor at a time when the imperial state needed a sharp kick up its Classical backside. He was also adept at debating with (and this dispatching) political rivals. On a lighter note - Septimius was the first Roman Emperor to use the Colosseum as a wedding venue for his eldest son.