This interdisciplinary study deconstructs Trajan’s historiographical image as princeps optimus through prosopographical, archaeological, and epigraphic analysis. It examines the Gens Ulpia’s rise, the succession crisis of 97/98 CE, and Trajan’s sophisticated propaganda apparatus. The central focus is on the Trajan Forum complex in Rome, arguing that the original design lacked a temple, emphasizing military virtutes over sacral power. The work reveals how Trajanic self-representation created an enduring imperial model.