Emperor Marcus Aurelius Antonius was emperor of the Roman Empire from 211-17 A. D. He had brute strength and was a capable military leader; his close association with the army was an important feature of Caracalla's reign as emperor. The army was instrumental in choosing and sustaining the governing authority during this period. His orchestration as a ruthless emperor was fostered by the orchestration of his brother Geta's murder. Despite his aggressive campaign to ensure popularity with the army, he possessed keen administrative skills. He granted roman citizenship to all communities inside the empire, thereby obliterating any distinction between Italians and provincials.