100

100 was a year in the first century of the Common Era (AD), reckoned by the Julian calendar then in use in the Roman Empire. The year is counted as the final year of the first century when numbering begins from year 1, though some reckonings treat it as the first year of the second century.

At this time Rome was under the rule of Emperor Trajan, who took power in 98. In the far east, China was ruled by the Eastern Han dynasty. Trade networks along the Silk Road and sea routes connected the east and west of Eurasia.

Numbering of years

The system of numbering years in the Common Era (Anno Domini) did not exist in that year. It was devised by the cleric Dionysius Exiguus in the sixth century and subsequently adopted gradually across Europe. People living in that year therefore did not refer to it as "the year 100." The Romans dated years by the names of consuls or by counting from the foundation of the city of Rome (ab urbe condita).

The Roman Empire

Trajan focused on reorganising the administration and building roads and harbours, and prepared military campaigns toward Dacia, which began shortly after. Historians generally characterize this period as one of stable administration and expanded frontiers combined.

Other parts of the world

In Asia, the Kushan Empire controlled parts of northern India and central Asia, and spread Buddhism through trade routes. In Africa, the coastal cities of North Africa held by Rome were major commercial centres. Historical records specifically concerning this year are sparse in many regions.