Vespasian

Before Napoleon, Hitler or Angela Merkel, Vespasian ruled Europe. Here he is in the Uffizi, where I saw him two years ago today. 

Handsome fellow, isn't he? 

Boris Johnson was right when he said Europe has a primordial longing to return to the Roman Empire. "It worked better than the European Union because an autocracy": discuss. Crucifixions and being flung to the lions awaited critics, which beats any penalties Ursula von der Leyden can impose.