Overview
This lecture covers the rise and fall of the Roman Republic, focusing on Julius Caesar's role, the transition to empire, and the factors that led to the concentration of power in Rome.
Foundations of the Roman Republic
- Rome was originally governed by a blended system of monarchy, aristocracy, and democracy.
- The Senate was composed of Patricians (elite families) and set policy for Rome's two Consuls.
- Consuls served one-year terms with a ten-year gap before serving again and checked each other's power.
- A temporary dictator could be appointed during emergencies, ideally returning power after the crisis.
Julius Caesar's Rise
- Caesar, born around 100 BCE to a Patrician family, rose through military and political ranks.
- He allied with Crassus and Pompey to form the First Triumvirate, dominating Roman politics.
- Caesar conquered Gaul and gained loyal armies, expanding Rome's territory and his own power.
- After Crassus died and Pompey opposed him, Caesar crossed the Rubicon with his army, starting a civil war.
Caesarās Rule and Death
- Caesar became dictator and consul, then extended his rule to ten years and for life.
- He enacted popular reforms: land for soldiers, debt restructuring, and a new calendar.
- Fearing his power, senators assassinated Caesar in 44 BCE, hoping to restore the Republic.
After Caesar: End of the Republic
- Caesar's death led to the Second Triumvirate (Octavian, Antony, Lepidus) and more civil war.
- Octavian defeated Antony, became Augustus, and established himself as Rome's first emperor.
- Augustus retained the form of the Republic, but actual power rested with him.
Roots of Empire and Decline of the Republic
- Earlier generals like Marius and Sulla had also concentrated power and undermined the Republic.
- Rome became an empire in practice after the Punic Wars, ruling diverse peoples and provinces.
- Expansion required powerful generals and armies loyal to individuals rather than the state.
- Empire, not Caesar alone, created conditions for emperors; the Republic effectively ended before Augustus.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Patricians ā The elite, aristocratic families of Rome.
- Plebeians ā All non-aristocratic Roman citizens.
- Senate ā Advisory and legislative body mainly from Patrician class.
- Consul ā One of two annual chief executives of Rome.
- Dictator ā Appointed leader during emergencies, meant to relinquish power after crisis.
- Triumvirate ā Alliance of three powerful individuals (First: Caesar, Pompey, Crassus; Second: Octavian, Antony, Lepidus).
- Punic Wars ā Series of wars between Rome and Carthage, leading to Roman dominance in the Mediterranean.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Prepare for next week's lecture on the rise of Christianity in Rome.
- Review the structure of the Republic and the key reforms of Caesar for further study.