Marcus Aurelius and Hadrian were not directly related by blood, but they were connected through a series of adoptions and the broader context of Roman imperial succession.
Hadrian, who ruled from 117 to 138 AD, was known for adopting his successor, Antoninus Pius, rather than having a biological heir. Antoninus Pius, in turn, adopted Marcus Aurelius and Lucius Verus. Therefore, while Marcus Aurelius was not a direct descendant of Hadrian, he was part of a succession plan initiated by Hadrian through adoption.
This practice of adopting a suitable heir was common among Roman emperors, especially during the era of the