Gaius Julius Caesar, born on July 12 or 13, 100 BC, was a Roman general and statesman who played a critical role in the events that led to the demise of the Roman Republic and the rise of the Roman Empire. He was a member of the First Triumvirate and became dictator from 49 BC until his assassination in 44 BC. Caesar's life and career were marked by his military prowess, political acumen, and eventual assassination, which led to the end of the Roman Republic.
Origins & Early Formation
Gaius Julius Caesar was born into a patrician family, the gens Julia, on July 12 or 13, 100 BC. The family claimed descent from Julus, the son of Aeneas, and thus from Venus, making the clan divine. Despite their ancient pedigree, the Julii Caesares were not especially politically influential during the middle republic. Caesar's father was moderately successful politically, serving as praetor and proconsular governor of Asia.
First Steps into Public Life
Caesar's early career was marked by his appointment as flamen Dialis, a priest of Jupiter, which led to his marriage to Cornelia, the daughter of Cinna. After Sulla's victory in the civil war, Caesar was ordered to divorce Cornelia but refused, questioning the legitimacy of Sulla's annulment. He then left Italy to serve in the staff of the governor of Asia, where he won the civic crown for bravery at the Siege of Mytilene.
Rise & Turning Points
Caesar rose to power through a series of military victories in the Gallic Wars, completed by 51 BC, which greatly extended Roman territory. His crossing of the Rubicon in 49 BC marked the start of a civil war, which he won, leaving him in a position of near-unchallenged power. He implemented significant reforms, including the creation of the Julian calendar and extending citizenship to communities in Spain and northern Italy.
Final Years, Death & Legacy
In early 44 BC, Caesar was proclaimed "dictator for life." Fearful of his power, a group of senators led by Brutus and Cassius assassinated him on the Ides of March, 44 BC. His death led to a series of civil wars and the eventual rise of his great-nephew and adoptive heir Octavian, later known as Augustus, who transformed the Republic into the Roman Empire. Caesar's legacy includes his role as one of history's greatest military commanders and his influence on the Roman political system.
