- Killed his mother, Agrippina the Younger: Ordered for her to be killed in 59 AD.
- Persecuted Christians: Accused them of burning Rome in 64 AD and subjected them to execution and various forms of persecution.
- Grand-scale building projects: Built the Domus Aurea, known for its extravagance, and drained Lake Fucinus to create agricultural land.
- Artistic pursuits: Nero had a passion for music, poetry, and acting, and is said to have performed publicly to significant criticism.
- Excess and debauchery: Nero's reign was often characterized by extravagance, self-indulgence, and lavish spending.
- Execution of his first two wives, Octavia and Poppaea Sabina: Octavia was believed to be executed to make way for his mistress Poppaea, who later was killed due to Nero's excessive rage.
- Persecution of senators and nobles: Nero often carried out executions of influential individuals, leading to political instability.
- Revolt of Boudicca in Britain: In 60-61 AD, the Iceni tribe, led by Queen Boudicca, rebelled against Roman rule in Britain. Nero's response to this revolt involved the infamous destruction of the city of Camulodunum.