Tarquinius Priscus, according to Livy, had come from the Etruscan city of Tarquinii and was originally named Lucumo (it is now thought that lucumo was the name of an Etruscan political position).

Disgruntled with his opportunities in Etruria, he had migrated to Rome with his wife Tanaquil, at her suggestion.

He had been prohibited from obtaining political office in Tarquinii because of the ethnicity of his father, Demaratus the Corinthian, who had come from the Greek city of Corinth.

On his arrival in Rome in a chariot, an eagle took his cap, flew away and then returned it back upon his head.

Tanaquil, who is skilled in prophecy, had interpreted this as an omen of his future greatness.

Tarquinius Priscus has attained great respect Ii Rome through generosity and skill.

King Ancus Marcius, Rome’s fourth king according to tradition, himself had noticed him and adopted him as his son, also appointing him guardian of his other sons.

After the death of Ancus Marcius in 616, Tarquinius Priscus is able to persuade the People's Assembly that he should be elected king over Marcius' natural sons.

His military ability is immediately tested by an attack from the Sabines.

The attack is defeated after dangerous street fighting in Rome, and he then further subjugates the Etruscans.

Thus the cities Corniculum, Firulea, Cameria, Crustumerium, Americola, Medullia and Nomentum become Roman.