A successful Equestrian (Equites) and Consul in 30 C.E., Velleius Paterculus dedicated his history to him during his consulship and, in 33, Emperor Tiberius chose him to marry Julia (6), daughter of Germanicus. Their marriage was not a happy one; she was banished by Gaius Caligula in 39 but recalled by Claudius in 41, only to be put to death at the instigation of Empress Messallina.
Consul for a second time, in 45, Vinicius was an object of lust to Messallina. He was executed because he refused to have an affair with the empress. He was described as gentle, a graceful speaker, and one who minded his own business in the hope of staying alive.
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