This turn of events had given the German legions not the reward for loyalty that they had expected but rather accusations of having obstructed Galba's path to the throne.

Their commander, Rufus, had immediately been replaced by the new emperor.

The loss of political confidence in Germania's loyalty has also resulted in the dismissal of the Imperial Batavian Bodyguards and rebellion.

The respected Galba, noted for his integrity and extreme thriftiness, appears to have quickly stabilized a dangerous situation, but he does not remain popular for long.

On his march to Rome, he had either destroyed or taken enormous fines from towns that did not accept him immediately.

In Rome, Galba has canceled all the reforms of Nero, including benefits for many important persons.

Like his predecessor, Galba has a fear of conspirators and has executed many senators and equites without trial.

The Praetorian Guard are not happy either.

After his safe arrival in Rome, Galba had refused to pay them the rewards that the prefect Nymphidius had promised them in the new emperor's name.

Moreover, in the start of the civil year of 69 on January 1, the legions of Germania Inferior had refused to swear allegiance and obedience to Galba, and on the following day had acclaimed Vitellius, their governor, as emperor.

Hearing the news of the loss of the Rhine legions, Galba panics.

He adopts a young senator, the late Piso's brother, Lucius Calpurnius Piso Licinianus, as his successor.

By doing this, he offends many people, and above all Otho, an influential and ambitious man who desires the honor for himself.

Otho bribes the fickle Praetorian Guard, already very unhappy with the emperor, to his side.

When Galba hears about the coup d'état he goes to the streets in an attempt to stabilize the situation.

It proves a mistake, because he can attract no supporters.

Shortly afterwards, the Praetorian Guard kills him in the Forum.

Otho is recognized as emperor by the Senate the same day.

The new emperor is saluted with relief.