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The great Roman historian Livy was appointed his tutor, and Claudius proved a capable historian, who later wrote many histories that are now sadly lost. His intellectual abilities did not lead him to become a public figure despite being an Imperial family member. However, his disabilities probably saved him from execution and exile, unlike so many other family members during Tiberius’ reign. However, the accession of Caligula meant that Claudius was thrust into public life as a consul.
However, Caligula had contempt for Claudius, and he openly mocked and ridiculed him. The brutality and erratic behavior of Caligula led to his assassination by the Praetorian Guard. After they had killed Caligula, they did not know how to proceed. In desperation, he appointed It is alleged that Claudius was named as Caligula's successor in desperation because he was one of the last living members of the Julian-Claudian dynasty. Suetonius called his assumption of the Imperial dignity a "freak of fortune.’"<ref> Suetonius, <i>Life of Claudius</i>, 17</ref> The notion that Claudius was not involved in Caligula's death is ridiculous. Claudius most likely planned Caligula's death with the Praetorian guard. Once Caligula was dead, the Praetorian Guard installed an Emperor that they knew was competent and rational.
Claudius pardoned all the killers of his predecessor and secured the Senate's grudging support, who appeared to have been cowed by the Praetorian Guard. To the surprise of many, he proved to be an energetic ruler and was not the Imperial guard's puppet. In 44 AD, Claudius ordered the invasion of Britain, and he visited the battlefront.
