Roman History 07 - The Late Republic 2 115 - 60 BC

[Music] [Music] Hello and welcome to the history of Hello and welcome to the history of Hello and welcome to the history of Rome. Episode 3A, Rome. Episode 3A, Rome. Episode 3A, Marius. Last week we ended with the Marius. Last week we ended with the Marius. Last week we ended with the death of gas, the popular reformer who death of gas, the popular reformer who death of gas, the popular reformer who was driven to suicide in 121 BC. was driven to suicide in 121 BC. was driven to suicide in 121 BC. This week we will take up the career of This week we will take up the career of This week we will take up the career of a man who coincidentally served as a man who coincidentally served as a man who coincidentally served as tribune of the plebs the very next year. tribune of the plebs the very next year. tribune of the plebs the very next year. He would not make his name in that He would not make his name in that He would not make his name in that office or that year, but 20 years later office or that year, but 20 years later office or that year, but 20 years later he would be known to history as the he would be known to history as the he would be known to history as the great remaker of the Roman legions and great remaker of the Roman legions and great remaker of the Roman legions and the man who was consil five times in a the man who was consil five times in a the man who was consil five times in a row. With the Grai had started by row. With the Grai had started by row. With the Grai had started by flouting the laws against consecutive flouting the laws against consecutive flouting the laws against consecutive terms, Marius took to a higher office terms, Marius took to a higher office terms, Marius took to a higher office for an even longer for an even longer for an even longer stay. Gas Marius was born in 157 BC in stay. Gas Marius was born in 157 BC in stay. Gas Marius was born in 157 BC in southern Latadium. His hometown had been southern Latadium. His hometown had been southern Latadium. His hometown had been conquered by the Romans in the 4th conquered by the Romans in the 4th conquered by the Romans in the 4th century BC and since that time they had century BC and since that time they had century BC and since that time they had been citizens of Rome without voting been citizens of Rome without voting been citizens of Rome without voting rights. It wasn't until about 30 years rights. It wasn't until about 30 years rights. It wasn't until about 30 years before Marius's birth that his people before Marius's birth that his people before Marius's birth that his people were granted status as full Roman were granted status as full Roman were granted status as full Roman citizens. The story goes that Marius was citizens. The story goes that Marius was citizens. The story goes that Marius was the son of a simple farmer. But this the son of a simple farmer. But this the son of a simple farmer. But this myth of humble origins was an invention myth of humble origins was an invention myth of humble origins was an invention after the fact to help the poor of Rome after the fact to help the poor of Rome after the fact to help the poor of Rome identify with Marius, the great general identify with Marius, the great general identify with Marius, the great general and and and politician. His father was certainly politician. His father was certainly politician. His father was certainly involved in farming, but he was likely a involved in farming, but he was likely a involved in farming, but he was likely a major landowner who had numerous major landowner who had numerous major landowner who had numerous familial and commercial ties to the familial and commercial ties to the familial and commercial ties to the nobility in Rome. There is no other way nobility in Rome. There is no other way nobility in Rome. There is no other way to explain how Marius was able to get to explain how Marius was able to get to explain how Marius was able to get his foot in the door to high Roman

his foot in the door to high Roman his foot in the door to high Roman office. office. office. The other great myth of Marius's early The other great myth of Marius's early The other great myth of Marius's early years was that as a teenager, he came years was that as a teenager, he came years was that as a teenager, he came across an eagle's nest with seven chicks across an eagle's nest with seven chicks across an eagle's nest with seven chicks inside. Eagles were seen by the Romans inside. Eagles were seen by the Romans inside. Eagles were seen by the Romans as sacred animals looked after by as sacred animals looked after by as sacred animals looked after by Jupiter himself. Though again, this myth Jupiter himself. Though again, this myth Jupiter himself. Though again, this myth did not begin making the rounds until did not begin making the rounds until did not begin making the rounds until years later, especially after Marius years later, especially after Marius years later, especially after Marius began running for his seventh console began running for his seventh console began running for his seventh console ship. And it was impressed upon the ship. And it was impressed upon the ship. And it was impressed upon the people that had all been pre-ordained by people that had all been pre-ordained by people that had all been pre-ordained by Jupiter himself. Elect Marius. He once Jupiter himself. Elect Marius. He once Jupiter himself. Elect Marius. He once saw seven baby eagles and he's only been saw seven baby eagles and he's only been saw seven baby eagles and he's only been console six times. Get it? You don't console six times. Get it? You don't console six times. Get it? You don't want to go messing around with the want to go messing around with the want to go messing around with the universe, do universe, do universe, do you? When Marius came of age, he you? When Marius came of age, he you? When Marius came of age, he volunteered for service in the army and volunteered for service in the army and volunteered for service in the army and was placed as an was placed as an was placed as an officer. Though this placement hints officer. Though this placement hints officer. Though this placement hints that his family was well connected, he that his family was well connected, he that his family was well connected, he was never truly accepted by his noble was never truly accepted by his noble was never truly accepted by his noble peers. To them, he would always be peers. To them, he would always be peers. To them, he would always be novice homo or a new man, meaning that novice homo or a new man, meaning that novice homo or a new man, meaning that none of his ancestors had ever served as none of his ancestors had ever served as none of his ancestors had ever served as console. Despite all the power, wealth, console. Despite all the power, wealth, console. Despite all the power, wealth, and fame he acquired over his career, to and fame he acquired over his career, to and fame he acquired over his career, to the old guard, he would always be a new the old guard, he would always be a new the old guard, he would always be a new man. Much the way that in England, no man. Much the way that in England, no man. Much the way that in England, no matter what Margaret Thatcher did, said, matter what Margaret Thatcher did, said, matter what Margaret Thatcher did, said, or achieved, she will always be just a or achieved, she will always be just a or achieved, she will always be just a ger's daughter to the aristocratic ger's daughter to the aristocratic ger's daughter to the aristocratic class. Some ceilings simply cannot be class. Some ceilings simply cannot be class. Some ceilings simply cannot be broken through.

broken through. broken through. Though this very status as a new man Though this very status as a new man Though this very status as a new man would solidify Marius's near saintthood would solidify Marius's near saintthood would solidify Marius's near saintthood in the eyes of other ambitious young men in the eyes of other ambitious young men in the eyes of other ambitious young men who could not trace their family trees who could not trace their family trees who could not trace their family trees back to back to back to Romulus. As a young man, Marius was Romulus. As a young man, Marius was Romulus. As a young man, Marius was stationed with Scipio Amelianis in, wait stationed with Scipio Amelianis in, wait stationed with Scipio Amelianis in, wait for it, pneumantia, just like our old for it, pneumantia, just like our old for it, pneumantia, just like our old friends, the Groey brothers. In 134 BC, friends, the Groey brothers. In 134 BC, friends, the Groey brothers. In 134 BC, he ran for and was elected one of 24 he ran for and was elected one of 24 he ran for and was elected one of 24 military tribunes for the Spanish military tribunes for the Spanish military tribunes for the Spanish Legion. He was an unknown candidate but Legion. He was an unknown candidate but Legion. He was an unknown candidate but had a stellar service record to present. had a stellar service record to present. had a stellar service record to present. Unable to trade on his name, Marius Unable to trade on his name, Marius Unable to trade on his name, Marius traded on his skills and traded on his skills and traded on his skills and accomplishments. What a accomplishments. What a accomplishments. What a concept. This began Marius's slow and concept. This began Marius's slow and concept. This began Marius's slow and sometimes agonizing climb up the Roman sometimes agonizing climb up the Roman sometimes agonizing climb up the Roman political ladder. At each rung, he was political ladder. At each rung, he was political ladder. At each rung, he was resisted by the old guard, who were resisted by the old guard, who were resisted by the old guard, who were never quick to embrace new men. So never quick to embrace new men. So never quick to embrace new men. So unlike many other great figures in Roman unlike many other great figures in Roman unlike many other great figures in Roman history, his elections were never a history, his elections were never a history, his elections were never a foregone conclusion. In 120 BC though, foregone conclusion. In 120 BC though, foregone conclusion. In 120 BC though, the year after gas crocus' turbulent the year after gas crocus' turbulent the year after gas crocus' turbulent final term in office, Marius was elected final term in office, Marius was elected final term in office, Marius was elected a tribion of the plebs. He was able to a tribion of the plebs. He was able to a tribion of the plebs. He was able to do this by securing the blessing of a do this by securing the blessing of a do this by securing the blessing of a noble named Quintis Matelis. Though only noble named Quintis Matelis. Though only noble named Quintis Matelis. Though only 3 years older than Marius, the Mari 3 years older than Marius, the Mari 3 years older than Marius, the Mari family had long been clients to the family had long been clients to the family had long been clients to the Matteli family, and the old client Matteli family, and the old client Matteli family, and the old client patron dynamic played out.

patron dynamic played out. patron dynamic played out. Once in office though, Maurice Once in office though, Maurice Once in office though, Maurice infuriated his patrons by helping pass infuriated his patrons by helping pass infuriated his patrons by helping pass an election reform law the Matteli an election reform law the Matteli an election reform law the Matteli opposed. The bill, and I am not making opposed. The bill, and I am not making opposed. The bill, and I am not making this up, required a narrowing of the this up, required a narrowing of the this up, required a narrowing of the passageways electors walk down on their passageways electors walk down on their passageways electors walk down on their way to the ballot box to prevent way to the ballot box to prevent way to the ballot box to prevent harassment by partisans for one side or harassment by partisans for one side or harassment by partisans for one side or the other. The lofty ideals of democracy the other. The lofty ideals of democracy the other. The lofty ideals of democracy are often reliant on such are often reliant on such are often reliant on such micromanagement. The price of freedom, micromanagement. The price of freedom, micromanagement. The price of freedom, it seems, is eternal vigilance over the it seems, is eternal vigilance over the it seems, is eternal vigilance over the width of hallways. width of hallways. width of hallways. His relationship with Matelis strained. His relationship with Matelis strained. His relationship with Matelis strained. Marius's career stalled. Though after a Marius's career stalled. Though after a Marius's career stalled. Though after a few years, he stepped up another rung few years, he stepped up another rung few years, he stepped up another rung and managed to get elected Prader and managed to get elected Prader and managed to get elected Prader despite charges of ballot fraud. I guess despite charges of ballot fraud. I guess despite charges of ballot fraud. I guess it doesn't matter how narrow a it doesn't matter how narrow a it doesn't matter how narrow a passageway is if the man walking down it passageway is if the man walking down it passageway is if the man walking down it is going to cast 50 is going to cast 50 is going to cast 50 votes. Marius served in Spain with some votes. Marius served in Spain with some votes. Marius served in Spain with some distinction for a few years and then distinction for a few years and then distinction for a few years and then returned to Rome where he married the returned to Rome where he married the returned to Rome where he married the aunt of yet born Julius Caesar. I have aunt of yet born Julius Caesar. I have aunt of yet born Julius Caesar. I have to apologize for conflating Marius with to apologize for conflating Marius with to apologize for conflating Marius with Sa at the end of last week's episode.

Sa at the end of last week's episode. Sa at the end of last week's episode. Marius was Caesar's uncle-in-law, not Marius was Caesar's uncle-in-law, not Marius was Caesar's uncle-in-law, not father-in-law. The marriage was a boon father-in-law. The marriage was a boon father-in-law. The marriage was a boon to Marius's career and earned him a to Marius's career and earned him a to Marius's career and earned him a whole host of new allies amongst the whole host of new allies amongst the whole host of new allies amongst the elite. And around 110 BC, he even elite. And around 110 BC, he even elite. And around 110 BC, he even patched things up with his old patron, patched things up with his old patron, patched things up with his old patron, Matelis. At this point, I would like to Matelis. At this point, I would like to Matelis. At this point, I would like to shift gears before we move into the next shift gears before we move into the next shift gears before we move into the next stage of Marius's life and give a little stage of Marius's life and give a little stage of Marius's life and give a little background on where he and Matelis are background on where he and Matelis are background on where he and Matelis are headed. headed. headed. In 119 BC, the son of Macanissa, the old In 119 BC, the son of Macanissa, the old In 119 BC, the son of Macanissa, the old Numidian ally of Rome from the Punic Numidian ally of Rome from the Punic Numidian ally of Rome from the Punic Wars, passed away. He left the kingdom Wars, passed away. He left the kingdom Wars, passed away. He left the kingdom to his two sons and a third adopted son to his two sons and a third adopted son to his two sons and a third adopted son named Jagartha, who was technically the named Jagartha, who was technically the named Jagartha, who was technically the dead king's dead king's dead king's nephew. All three were grandsons of the nephew. All three were grandsons of the nephew. All three were grandsons of the great Mass, Anissa. Jagartha did not great Mass, Anissa. Jagartha did not great Mass, Anissa. Jagartha did not like to play nice with the other like to play nice with the other like to play nice with the other children, though, and immediately set children, though, and immediately set children, though, and immediately set about running the other two out of town. about running the other two out of town. about running the other two out of town. He assassinated one, but the other He assassinated one, but the other He assassinated one, but the other escaped and fled to Rome. Concerned at escaped and fled to Rome. Concerned at escaped and fled to Rome. Concerned at the power struggle in their client state the power struggle in their client state the power struggle in their client state and the economic disruptions caused, the and the economic disruptions caused, the and the economic disruptions caused, the Romans sent a delegation to find out Romans sent a delegation to find out Romans sent a delegation to find out what the trouble was all what the trouble was all what the trouble was all about. When he was a young man, Jagartha about. When he was a young man, Jagartha about. When he was a young man, Jagartha served in Spain as a cavalryman served in Spain as a cavalryman served in Spain as a cavalryman alongside the Romans and had noticed the alongside the Romans and had noticed the alongside the Romans and had noticed the most glaring weakness of the legions, most glaring weakness of the legions, most glaring weakness of the legions, the ease with which its commanders could the ease with which its commanders could the ease with which its commanders could be bribed. Military commanders at this be bribed. Military commanders at this be bribed. Military commanders at this time, no longer fighting for survival, time, no longer fighting for survival, time, no longer fighting for survival, were clearly in it for the money and were clearly in it for the money and were clearly in it for the money and prestige and saw no important prestige and saw no important prestige and saw no important distinction between plundering by force distinction between plundering by force distinction between plundering by force and accepting bribes not to plunder. In

and accepting bribes not to plunder. In and accepting bribes not to plunder. In fact, the latter seemed far more cost fact, the latter seemed far more cost fact, the latter seemed far more cost effective. Of course, to the Romans, the effective. Of course, to the Romans, the effective. Of course, to the Romans, the idea of bribery was officially morally idea of bribery was officially morally idea of bribery was officially morally reprehensible, but this fact had little reprehensible, but this fact had little reprehensible, but this fact had little impact on commanders in the field. impact on commanders in the field. impact on commanders in the field. So when the Roman commission came to So when the Roman commission came to So when the Roman commission came to adjudicate the budding civil war in adjudicate the budding civil war in adjudicate the budding civil war in Numidia, Jagartha bribed them handsomely Numidia, Jagartha bribed them handsomely Numidia, Jagartha bribed them handsomely to decide the issue in his favor, which to decide the issue in his favor, which to decide the issue in his favor, which they promptly did, being men of they promptly did, being men of they promptly did, being men of honor. Left alone and in control of half honor. Left alone and in control of half honor. Left alone and in control of half the kingdom, Jagartha set about the kingdom, Jagartha set about the kingdom, Jagartha set about attacking his cousin brother to win the attacking his cousin brother to win the attacking his cousin brother to win the other other other half. In this struggle, the Italian half. In this struggle, the Italian half. In this struggle, the Italian merchants and citizens came down almost merchants and citizens came down almost merchants and citizens came down almost universally against Jagartha, who was universally against Jagartha, who was universally against Jagartha, who was causing a lot of trouble and disrupting causing a lot of trouble and disrupting causing a lot of trouble and disrupting trade. In retaliation, Jagartha took the trade. In retaliation, Jagartha took the trade. In retaliation, Jagartha took the provocative step of executing a number provocative step of executing a number provocative step of executing a number of Italians in his custody. The Senate of Italians in his custody. The Senate of Italians in his custody. The Senate could not stand by and let this go. So, could not stand by and let this go. So, could not stand by and let this go. So, they sent an army to deal with the they sent an army to deal with the they sent an army to deal with the upstart. But the Roman armies were able upstart. But the Roman armies were able upstart. But the Roman armies were able to do little against Jagartha. to do little against Jagartha. to do little against Jagartha. Suspiciously little. At once, an Suspiciously little. At once, an Suspiciously little. At once, an investigation was undertaken into investigation was undertaken into investigation was undertaken into accusations of bribery, and Jagartha, accusations of bribery, and Jagartha, accusations of bribery, and Jagartha, still technically a client of Rome, was still technically a client of Rome, was still technically a client of Rome, was summoned to account for himself. But a summoned to account for himself. But a summoned to account for himself. But a few wellplaced bribes later, Jagartha few wellplaced bribes later, Jagartha few wellplaced bribes later, Jagartha was on his way back to Namidia, free as was on his way back to Namidia, free as was on his way back to Namidia, free as a bird, and no finding of fault being a bird, and no finding of fault being a bird, and no finding of fault being handed down on anyone. You got to hand handed down on anyone. You got to hand handed down on anyone. You got to hand it to him. There is something poetic it to him. There is something poetic it to him. There is something poetic about bribing your way out of charges of about bribing your way out of charges of about bribing your way out of charges of bribery. But the Roman people were still bribery. But the Roman people were still bribery. But the Roman people were still up in arms about the barbarian king. And up in arms about the barbarian king. And up in arms about the barbarian king. And in 109 BC, the consul for the year, in 109 BC, the consul for the year, in 109 BC, the consul for the year, Marius's old patron, Matelis, was sent

Marius's old patron, Matelis, was sent Marius's old patron, Matelis, was sent into Nidia to put down what had become a into Nidia to put down what had become a into Nidia to put down what had become a full-fledged rebellion. He took along full-fledged rebellion. He took along full-fledged rebellion. He took along Marius to serve as chief Marius to serve as chief Marius to serve as chief lieutenant. The campaign was frustrating lieutenant. The campaign was frustrating lieutenant. The campaign was frustrating for both sides. Matelis was too honest for both sides. Matelis was too honest for both sides. Matelis was too honest to be bribed and realizing this, to be bribed and realizing this, to be bribed and realizing this, Jagartha kept to the mountains and away Jagartha kept to the mountains and away Jagartha kept to the mountains and away from the invading legions. The Numidians from the invading legions. The Numidians from the invading legions. The Numidians took a page from old Fabius the Deair took a page from old Fabius the Deair took a page from old Fabius the Deair and embarked on a war of attrition with and embarked on a war of attrition with and embarked on a war of attrition with the Romans. Matelis was never able to the Romans. Matelis was never able to the Romans. Matelis was never able to pin the African prince down and his pin the African prince down and his pin the African prince down and his troops and the public back home began to troops and the public back home began to troops and the public back home began to lose patience. Accusations of bribery lose patience. Accusations of bribery lose patience. Accusations of bribery were hurled at Matelis, and though were hurled at Matelis, and though were hurled at Matelis, and though innocent, his own perceived failure innocent, his own perceived failure innocent, his own perceived failure became damning became damning became damning evidence. Marius watched with evidence. Marius watched with evidence. Marius watched with frustration equaling that of the Roman frustration equaling that of the Roman frustration equaling that of the Roman people. He thought Matau was far too people. He thought Matau was far too people. He thought Matau was far too cautious and began to get the idea that cautious and began to get the idea that cautious and began to get the idea that he could do a better job. To curry favor he could do a better job. To curry favor he could do a better job. To curry favor with the troops, he relaxed discipline with the troops, he relaxed discipline with the troops, he relaxed discipline in camp and began letting it be known in camp and began letting it be known in camp and began letting it be known that if he were in charge, this war that if he were in charge, this war that if he were in charge, this war would be over in a week. would be over in a week. would be over in a week. Troops and traders both began to write Troops and traders both began to write Troops and traders both began to write home praising Marius to the sky and a home praising Marius to the sky and a home praising Marius to the sky and a ground swell of support began to ground swell of support began to ground swell of support began to coalesce around the confident coalesce around the confident coalesce around the confident lieutenant. Marius asked permission to lieutenant. Marius asked permission to lieutenant. Marius asked permission to return home and stand for the console return home and stand for the console return home and stand for the console ship. Matelis disapproved of the idea ship. Matelis disapproved of the idea ship. Matelis disapproved of the idea but knew the troops were getting but knew the troops were getting but knew the troops were getting restless and it wouldn't do anyone any restless and it wouldn't do anyone any restless and it wouldn't do anyone any good to have Marius sulking around camp good to have Marius sulking around camp good to have Marius sulking around camp stirring up trouble. So the console let stirring up trouble. So the console let stirring up trouble. So the console let him go.

him go. him go. Marius came back to Rome and campaigned Marius came back to Rome and campaigned Marius came back to Rome and campaigned on a platform denouncing the slow pace on a platform denouncing the slow pace on a platform denouncing the slow pace of Matelis's strategy. He spoke of Matelis's strategy. He spoke of Matelis's strategy. He spoke confidently of his plan for victory confidently of his plan for victory confidently of his plan for victory which involved aggressive scorched earth which involved aggressive scorched earth which involved aggressive scorched earth tactics. The public, wary of corrupt tactics. The public, wary of corrupt tactics. The public, wary of corrupt officials prolonging the war, swept officials prolonging the war, swept officials prolonging the war, swept Marius into his first consil ship in 107 Marius into his first consil ship in 107 Marius into his first consil ship in 107 BC. BC. BC. The Senate was not exactly pleased at The Senate was not exactly pleased at The Senate was not exactly pleased at the dooodder Novous homo who was about the dooodder Novous homo who was about the dooodder Novous homo who was about to spoil all their fun and while to spoil all their fun and while to spoil all their fun and while accepting his election attempted to deny accepting his election attempted to deny accepting his election attempted to deny his appointment to command of the his appointment to command of the his appointment to command of the Numidian Numidian Numidian legions. The people's assembly however legions. The people's assembly however legions. The people's assembly however countered the move by invoking a countered the move by invoking a countered the move by invoking a littleknown clause that gave them final littleknown clause that gave them final littleknown clause that gave them final say over a consil's placement in the say over a consil's placement in the say over a consil's placement in the field. Marius was given Numidia and field. Marius was given Numidia and field. Marius was given Numidia and tasked simply with following through on tasked simply with following through on tasked simply with following through on his promise to end the his promise to end the his promise to end the war. To accomplish this goal, Marius war. To accomplish this goal, Marius war. To accomplish this goal, Marius asked permission to raise his own asked permission to raise his own asked permission to raise his own legions. This permission was granted, legions. This permission was granted, legions. This permission was granted, but then Marius asked for an exemption but then Marius asked for an exemption but then Marius asked for an exemption from the rules governing from the rules governing from the rules governing recruitment. The number of men who recruitment. The number of men who recruitment. The number of men who qualified under the old census rules had qualified under the old census rules had qualified under the old census rules had dwindled to a bare few even after the dwindled to a bare few even after the dwindled to a bare few even after the property qualifications had been lowered property qualifications had been lowered property qualifications had been lowered and lowered again until they practically and lowered again until they practically and lowered again until they practically did not exist.

did not exist. did not exist. The army Marius raised for the Numidian The army Marius raised for the Numidian The army Marius raised for the Numidian campaign, while the logical conclusion campaign, while the logical conclusion campaign, while the logical conclusion of years of rewriting the rules, of years of rewriting the rules, of years of rewriting the rules, nonetheless marked a clear break with nonetheless marked a clear break with nonetheless marked a clear break with the past. There would be no property the past. There would be no property the past. There would be no property qualifications this time. Any citizen qualifications this time. Any citizen qualifications this time. Any citizen was eligible, landowner or not. The was eligible, landowner or not. The was eligible, landowner or not. The floodgates were open and the poor floodgates were open and the poor floodgates were open and the poor citizens of Rome flocked to join citizens of Rome flocked to join citizens of Rome flocked to join Marius's new army. Marius's new army. Marius's new army. Though the move was supposed to be a Though the move was supposed to be a Though the move was supposed to be a temporary measure that affected only temporary measure that affected only temporary measure that affected only this specific levy, there was no turning this specific levy, there was no turning this specific levy, there was no turning back. Henceforth, the ranks of the back. Henceforth, the ranks of the back. Henceforth, the ranks of the legions would be filled by the poorest legions would be filled by the poorest legions would be filled by the poorest of the poor, not the richest of the of the poor, not the richest of the of the poor, not the richest of the rich. The elites had grown tired of the rich. The elites had grown tired of the rich. The elites had grown tired of the burden of military service anyway. They burden of military service anyway. They burden of military service anyway. They had plush estates and Greek philosophy had plush estates and Greek philosophy had plush estates and Greek philosophy to read. Let the rabble risk their lives to read. Let the rabble risk their lives to read. Let the rabble risk their lives in the provinces. It might clear off in the provinces. It might clear off in the provinces. It might clear off some of the excess population. And some of the excess population. And some of the excess population. And besides, it gave the poor something to besides, it gave the poor something to besides, it gave the poor something to do besides railing against their do besides railing against their do besides railing against their injustice of their lot in life, which injustice of their lot in life, which injustice of their lot in life, which was becoming such a boore. Let the was becoming such a boore. Let the was becoming such a boore. Let the beggars be soldiers. Whatever. It was a beggars be soldiers. Whatever. It was a beggars be soldiers. Whatever. It was a fateful moment that greatly accelerated fateful moment that greatly accelerated fateful moment that greatly accelerated the path to military dictatorship and the path to military dictatorship and the path to military dictatorship and imperium. From here on out, poor imperium. From here on out, poor imperium. From here on out, poor citizens became career soldiers, citizens became career soldiers, citizens became career soldiers, promised a salary while they served, and promised a salary while they served, and promised a salary while they served, and a plot of land when they retired.

a plot of land when they retired. a plot of land when they retired. To most it seemed too good to be true, To most it seemed too good to be true, To most it seemed too good to be true, and in many cases it was, as the state and in many cases it was, as the state and in many cases it was, as the state reneged on land grants and was often reneged on land grants and was often reneged on land grants and was often slow with slow with slow with paychecks. Soon enough, the interests of paychecks. Soon enough, the interests of paychecks. Soon enough, the interests of the soldiers no longer aligned with the the soldiers no longer aligned with the the soldiers no longer aligned with the interests of the state, and generals who interests of the state, and generals who interests of the state, and generals who could deliver land and pay gain the could deliver land and pay gain the could deliver land and pay gain the loyalty of the men, who now looked at loyalty of the men, who now looked at loyalty of the men, who now looked at the Senate as a bunch of crooked old the Senate as a bunch of crooked old the Senate as a bunch of crooked old liars. And we all know where that road liars. And we all know where that road liars. And we all know where that road will take will take will take us. But the immediate issue was the war us. But the immediate issue was the war us. But the immediate issue was the war in Numidia. Marius took his newly minted in Numidia. Marius took his newly minted in Numidia. Marius took his newly minted soldiers to Africa and promptly soldiers to Africa and promptly soldiers to Africa and promptly delivered on his promise. Though it delivered on his promise. Though it delivered on his promise. Though it wasn't scorched earth brute force that wasn't scorched earth brute force that wasn't scorched earth brute force that carried the day, but rather a little carried the day, but rather a little carried the day, but rather a little backroom treachery of his backroom treachery of his backroom treachery of his own. After finding it was not as easy to own. After finding it was not as easy to own. After finding it was not as easy to bottle up Jagartha as he thought, Marius bottle up Jagartha as he thought, Marius bottle up Jagartha as he thought, Marius dispatched one of his lieutenants to a dispatched one of his lieutenants to a dispatched one of his lieutenants to a neighboring kingdom to convince the neighboring kingdom to convince the neighboring kingdom to convince the local king, the father-in-law of local king, the father-in-law of local king, the father-in-law of Jagartha, to betray the rebellious Jagartha, to betray the rebellious Jagartha, to betray the rebellious prince. Through a mixture of bribery and prince. Through a mixture of bribery and prince. Through a mixture of bribery and cajoling, the young lieutenant was able cajoling, the young lieutenant was able cajoling, the young lieutenant was able to pull it off and the king delivered to pull it off and the king delivered to pull it off and the king delivered Jagartha to the Roman delegation in Jagartha to the Roman delegation in Jagartha to the Roman delegation in chains. Their general captured, the chains. Their general captured, the chains. Their general captured, the Numidian army Numidian army Numidian army surrendered. Because he held imperium surrendered. Because he held imperium surrendered. Because he held imperium over the war, Marius received all the over the war, Marius received all the over the war, Marius received all the credit for his lieutenant's actions.

credit for his lieutenant's actions. credit for his lieutenant's actions. There was nothing really improper or There was nothing really improper or There was nothing really improper or unprecedented about this, but it did unprecedented about this, but it did unprecedented about this, but it did stick in the crawl of the young officer, stick in the crawl of the young officer, stick in the crawl of the young officer, whom Marius failed often to even mention whom Marius failed often to even mention whom Marius failed often to even mention as he described how he won the as he described how he won the as he described how he won the war. The incident would mark the war. The incident would mark the war. The incident would mark the beginning of a rift between Marius and beginning of a rift between Marius and beginning of a rift between Marius and the young officer, a man named Lucius the young officer, a man named Lucius the young officer, a man named Lucius Cornelius Sullah. Cornelius Sullah. Cornelius Sullah. That rift would soon open up into a That rift would soon open up into a That rift would soon open up into a chasm, and the two men would stand for chasm, and the two men would stand for chasm, and the two men would stand for years on opposite sides of a bitter and years on opposite sides of a bitter and years on opposite sides of a bitter and often bloody conflict that preaged the often bloody conflict that preaged the often bloody conflict that preaged the full-blown civil wars of the following full-blown civil wars of the following full-blown civil wars of the following generation. But while Sull was still on generation. But while Sull was still on generation. But while Sull was still on the rise, Marius was burning at its the rise, Marius was burning at its the rise, Marius was burning at its absolute brightest. Next week he will absolute brightest. Next week he will absolute brightest. Next week he will check off baby eagles 2 through six and check off baby eagles 2 through six and check off baby eagles 2 through six and break every prohibition in the book break every prohibition in the book break every prohibition in the book doing it serving as console an doing it serving as console an doing it serving as console an unprecedented five consecutive unprecedented five consecutive unprecedented five consecutive years. In that time he would years. In that time he would years. In that time he would fundamentally reshape the organization fundamentally reshape the organization fundamentally reshape the organization and composition of the legions turning and composition of the legions turning and composition of the legions turning them from a part-time army into a fully them from a part-time army into a fully them from a part-time army into a fully professional fighting force. All the professional fighting force. All the professional fighting force. All the drilling and conditioning Marius put his drilling and conditioning Marius put his drilling and conditioning Marius put his armies through was essential. As to the armies through was essential. As to the armies through was essential. As to the north, an old menace was rising again.

north, an old menace was rising again. north, an old menace was rising again. Suddenly, the complacent Romans, who had Suddenly, the complacent Romans, who had Suddenly, the complacent Romans, who had spent the better part of a century spent the better part of a century spent the better part of a century fighting wars of choice and conquering fighting wars of choice and conquering fighting wars of choice and conquering the Mediterranean with ease, suddenly the Mediterranean with ease, suddenly the Mediterranean with ease, suddenly found themselves facing a war of found themselves facing a war of found themselves facing a war of extinction. The GIC nightmare, long extinction. The GIC nightmare, long extinction. The GIC nightmare, long dormant, was back with a vengeance. And dormant, was back with a vengeance. And dormant, was back with a vengeance. And it would take everything the Romans had it would take everything the Romans had it would take everything the Romans had just to hold them at bay, let alone just to hold them at bay, let alone just to hold them at bay, let alone conquer anything. conquer anything. conquer anything. [Music] Hello and welcome to the history of Hello and welcome to the history of Rome, episode 31B, Rome, episode 31B, Rome, episode 31B, Marius. Last week, we covered the life Marius. Last week, we covered the life Marius. Last week, we covered the life of gas Marius through his first consil of gas Marius through his first consil of gas Marius through his first consil ship. Up to this point, his career was ship. Up to this point, his career was ship. Up to this point, his career was impressive, but hardly unique. impressive, but hardly unique. impressive, but hardly unique. Yes, he was a new man and deserves extra Yes, he was a new man and deserves extra Yes, he was a new man and deserves extra credit for forging his way upward credit for forging his way upward credit for forging his way upward despite the institutional barriers he despite the institutional barriers he despite the institutional barriers he faced, but he was hardly the first faced, but he was hardly the first faced, but he was hardly the first novous homo to be elected console and novous homo to be elected console and novous homo to be elected console and hardly the first Roman general to win hardly the first Roman general to win hardly the first Roman general to win the support of the Roman people by the support of the Roman people by the support of the Roman people by bringing an unpopular foreign war to an bringing an unpopular foreign war to an bringing an unpopular foreign war to an end. But Marius's ambition and more end. But Marius's ambition and more end. But Marius's ambition and more importantly his willingness to act on importantly his willingness to act on importantly his willingness to act on that ambition definitely set him apart that ambition definitely set him apart that ambition definitely set him apart from his colleagues. There is a reason from his colleagues. There is a reason from his colleagues. There is a reason Gas Marius deserves multi-ep episode Gas Marius deserves multi-ep episode Gas Marius deserves multi-ep episode treatment. And by the end of today, treatment. And by the end of today, treatment. And by the end of today, those reasons should be abundantly those reasons should be abundantly those reasons should be abundantly clear. In 109 BC, the console Matelis clear. In 109 BC, the console Matelis clear. In 109 BC, the console Matelis had been sent to Africa and took Marius had been sent to Africa and took Marius had been sent to Africa and took Marius along with him. But in that same year,

along with him. But in that same year, along with him. But in that same year, Matelus' consularor colleague Marcus Matelus' consularor colleague Marcus Matelus' consularor colleague Marcus Solanis was sent north to deal with the Solanis was sent north to deal with the Solanis was sent north to deal with the Kimri, a GIC army that had been growing Kimri, a GIC army that had been growing Kimri, a GIC army that had been growing in strength in the north. in strength in the north. in strength in the north. Solonis was supposed to put down the Solonis was supposed to put down the Solonis was supposed to put down the impertinent barbarians and restore Roman impertinent barbarians and restore Roman impertinent barbarians and restore Roman order, but instead was utterly order, but instead was utterly order, but instead was utterly defeated. Emboldened by the Kimry defeated. Emboldened by the Kimry defeated. Emboldened by the Kimry success, another Ga tribe began making success, another Ga tribe began making success, another Ga tribe began making waves in 107 BC, the year of Marius's waves in 107 BC, the year of Marius's waves in 107 BC, the year of Marius's first console ship. Again, the Roman first console ship. Again, the Roman first console ship. Again, the Roman legions were sent north to put down the legions were sent north to put down the legions were sent north to put down the marauding army. But again, the legions marauding army. But again, the legions marauding army. But again, the legions were beaten. This time the Roman were beaten. This time the Roman were beaten. This time the Roman officers left standing were only able to officers left standing were only able to officers left standing were only able to save their defeated troops by having save their defeated troops by having save their defeated troops by having them pass under the yoke, a humiliating them pass under the yoke, a humiliating them pass under the yoke, a humiliating ritual for the proud ritual for the proud ritual for the proud Romans. At this point, the most pressing Romans. At this point, the most pressing Romans. At this point, the most pressing matter was the war in North Africa, but matter was the war in North Africa, but matter was the war in North Africa, but it was fast becoming apparent that Rome it was fast becoming apparent that Rome it was fast becoming apparent that Rome faced a very real threat in the faced a very real threat in the faced a very real threat in the resurgent Gauls. resurgent Gauls. resurgent Gauls. In 106 BC, the Romans met with some In 106 BC, the Romans met with some In 106 BC, the Romans met with some success as their console for the year, success as their console for the year, success as their console for the year, Quintis Capio, pacified a rebellious Quintis Capio, pacified a rebellious Quintis Capio, pacified a rebellious town and reintroduced some semblance of town and reintroduced some semblance of town and reintroduced some semblance of Roman Roman Roman superiority. But he was to give it all superiority. But he was to give it all superiority. But he was to give it all away the next year, leading to the away the next year, leading to the away the next year, leading to the circumstances that allowed Marius's circumstances that allowed Marius's circumstances that allowed Marius's unprecedented run of console ships to unprecedented run of console ships to unprecedented run of console ships to commence. In 105, Capia was made commence. In 105, Capia was made commence. In 105, Capia was made proconsul in Gaul and the new console proconsul in Gaul and the new console proconsul in Gaul and the new console for the year, Nas Malius, was sent north for the year, Nas Malius, was sent north for the year, Nas Malius, was sent north with an army to join him. Malus, like with an army to join him. Malus, like with an army to join him. Malus, like Marius, was a new man, and the noble Marius, was a new man, and the noble Marius, was a new man, and the noble Capio had little interest in serving Capio had little interest in serving Capio had little interest in serving with, let alone serving beneath the new

with, let alone serving beneath the new with, let alone serving beneath the new console. The Kimry were on the move console. The Kimry were on the move console. The Kimry were on the move again and had been joined by another of again and had been joined by another of again and had been joined by another of the migrating Germanic tribes, the the migrating Germanic tribes, the the migrating Germanic tribes, the Tutonis, on the east side of the Ron Tutonis, on the east side of the Ron Tutonis, on the east side of the Ron River. Malius crossed over with his River. Malius crossed over with his River. Malius crossed over with his army, but when he engaged the tribes, army, but when he engaged the tribes, army, but when he engaged the tribes, Capio refused to come to his aid. Only Capio refused to come to his aid. Only Capio refused to come to his aid. Only after special pleading from the Senate after special pleading from the Senate after special pleading from the Senate did Capio agree to help the consularor did Capio agree to help the consularor did Capio agree to help the consularor army. Even then, he refused to join his army. Even then, he refused to join his army. Even then, he refused to join his forces with Malius's troops. As a forces with Malius's troops. As a forces with Malius's troops. As a result, the Kimrian Tutane turned first result, the Kimrian Tutane turned first result, the Kimrian Tutane turned first on KPO's smaller force and drove him on KPO's smaller force and drove him on KPO's smaller force and drove him off. And then they swung back on Malus, off. And then they swung back on Malus, off. And then they swung back on Malus, who was pushed back to the banks of the who was pushed back to the banks of the who was pushed back to the banks of the river. With nowhere to run and no river. With nowhere to run and no river. With nowhere to run and no reinforcements to speak of, the Romans reinforcements to speak of, the Romans reinforcements to speak of, the Romans were crushed with casualties running were crushed with casualties running were crushed with casualties running upwards of upwards of upwards of 80,000. The entire debacle was chocked 80,000. The entire debacle was chocked 80,000. The entire debacle was chocked up in the Roman press as another example up in the Roman press as another example up in the Roman press as another example of the hottie oligarchs disrespecting of the hottie oligarchs disrespecting of the hottie oligarchs disrespecting anyone who did not come from their anyone who did not come from their anyone who did not come from their closed cast. Capia would not have left a closed cast. Capia would not have left a closed cast. Capia would not have left a patrician cousin out in the cold like patrician cousin out in the cold like patrician cousin out in the cold like that. It was only because Malius was that. It was only because Malius was that. It was only because Malius was Novas homo that so many good Roman sons Novas homo that so many good Roman sons Novas homo that so many good Roman sons and husbands were dead on the banks of and husbands were dead on the banks of and husbands were dead on the banks of the Ron. The popularity of the the Ron. The popularity of the the Ron. The popularity of the patricians was at an all-time patricians was at an all-time patricians was at an all-time low. So in 105 BC the people turned back low. So in 105 BC the people turned back low. So in 105 BC the people turned back to another Novas homo a man who had to another Novas homo a man who had to another Novas homo a man who had proven his ability to succeed where the proven his ability to succeed where the proven his ability to succeed where the supposed elites had endlessly failed.

supposed elites had endlessly failed. supposed elites had endlessly failed. Gas Gas Gas Marius. The election itself was illegal. Marius. The election itself was illegal. Marius. The election itself was illegal. Of course, there were at least two and Of course, there were at least two and Of course, there were at least two and possibly three different laws placing possibly three different laws placing possibly three different laws placing various restrictions on when a man could various restrictions on when a man could various restrictions on when a man could be consil, how many years must pass be consil, how many years must pass be consil, how many years must pass before he holds office again, and before he holds office again, and before he holds office again, and possibly whether holding office a second possibly whether holding office a second possibly whether holding office a second time was ever permissible. But the laws time was ever permissible. But the laws time was ever permissible. But the laws were flouted, and the rule of law gave were flouted, and the rule of law gave were flouted, and the rule of law gave way to popular sentiment. Marius was way to popular sentiment. Marius was way to popular sentiment. Marius was stationed in Africa at the time of his stationed in Africa at the time of his stationed in Africa at the time of his election and returned to take up a election and returned to take up a election and returned to take up a mantle he had just set down two years mantle he had just set down two years mantle he had just set down two years before. before. before. Upon his return, he celebrated a triumph Upon his return, he celebrated a triumph Upon his return, he celebrated a triumph for his victory in Africa with the for his victory in Africa with the for his victory in Africa with the change of girth at the head of his change of girth at the head of his change of girth at the head of his procession. The spectacle climaxed with procession. The spectacle climaxed with procession. The spectacle climaxed with the execution of the rebellious African the execution of the rebellious African the execution of the rebellious African prince. No bribe would save him this prince. No bribe would save him this prince. No bribe would save him this time. Marius's first order of business time. Marius's first order of business time. Marius's first order of business was to whip the legions into shape. The was to whip the legions into shape. The was to whip the legions into shape. The army sent north had been sloppy and army sent north had been sloppy and army sent north had been sloppy and undisiplined, and Marius had no undisiplined, and Marius had no undisiplined, and Marius had no intention of repeating the mistakes of intention of repeating the mistakes of intention of repeating the mistakes of his predecessors. He again raised a levy his predecessors. He again raised a levy his predecessors. He again raised a levy without regard for property without regard for property without regard for property qualifications, but then took things one qualifications, but then took things one qualifications, but then took things one step further by reorganizing the basic step further by reorganizing the basic step further by reorganizing the basic structure of the army to meet his own structure of the army to meet his own structure of the army to meet his own specifications. It was this extra step specifications. It was this extra step specifications. It was this extra step that really secured Marius's place in that really secured Marius's place in that really secured Marius's place in history. Because in doing so, he would history. Because in doing so, he would history. Because in doing so, he would completely abandon the manipul system completely abandon the manipul system completely abandon the manipul system and the traditional three lines that had and the traditional three lines that had and the traditional three lines that had served the army so well over the past served the army so well over the past served the army so well over the past 200 years in favor of a more robust and 200 years in favor of a more robust and 200 years in favor of a more robust and more mobile legion. The armies of more mobile legion. The armies of more mobile legion. The armies of Caesar, Pompy, and Octavius were all

Caesar, Pompy, and Octavius were all Caesar, Pompy, and Octavius were all structured according to the Marian structured according to the Marian structured according to the Marian vision. The first thing Marius did was vision. The first thing Marius did was vision. The first thing Marius did was abolish the maniples as the basic abolish the maniples as the basic abolish the maniples as the basic tactical unit. Too often, the tactical unit. Too often, the tactical unit. Too often, the checkerboard maniples had proved checkerboard maniples had proved checkerboard maniples had proved insufficient against a direct frontal insufficient against a direct frontal insufficient against a direct frontal assault. Plus, when not facing a lockown assault. Plus, when not facing a lockown assault. Plus, when not facing a lockown failings, it was easy for a single failings, it was easy for a single failings, it was easy for a single manipole to be surrounded and cut off manipole to be surrounded and cut off manipole to be surrounded and cut off from the rest of the legions. So Marius from the rest of the legions. So Marius from the rest of the legions. So Marius took what had once been merely an took what had once been merely an took what had once been merely an administrative classification for three administrative classification for three administrative classification for three maniples, the cohort, and made it the maniples, the cohort, and made it the maniples, the cohort, and made it the basic tactical unit. Now rather than 160 basic tactical unit. Now rather than 160 basic tactical unit. Now rather than 160 men marching off together, the tactical men marching off together, the tactical men marching off together, the tactical box was made 400 to 500 men strong. box was made 400 to 500 men strong. box was made 400 to 500 men strong. While enlarging his tactical forces, While enlarging his tactical forces, While enlarging his tactical forces, Marius also made a decision to abandon Marius also made a decision to abandon Marius also made a decision to abandon the traditional threeline formation. the traditional threeline formation. the traditional threeline formation. It really speaks volumes of Marius's It really speaks volumes of Marius's It really speaks volumes of Marius's self assuredness that he would so self assuredness that he would so self assuredness that he would so casually shrug off an organizational casually shrug off an organizational casually shrug off an organizational structure that had conquered most of the structure that had conquered most of the structure that had conquered most of the known world. Some would call it outright known world. Some would call it outright known world. Some would call it outright arrogance. But all his alterations were arrogance. But all his alterations were arrogance. But all his alterations were made with an eye on the coming battle made with an eye on the coming battle made with an eye on the coming battle with the Gauls. A campaign that would with the Gauls. A campaign that would with the Gauls. A campaign that would involve a lot of head-long charges from involve a lot of head-long charges from involve a lot of head-long charges from a numerically superior force.

a numerically superior force. a numerically superior force. There was no sense letting the drama of There was no sense letting the drama of There was no sense letting the drama of having the inexperienced firstline push having the inexperienced firstline push having the inexperienced firstline push back only to have the waiting in the back only to have the waiting in the back only to have the waiting in the wings veteran step in to save the day. wings veteran step in to save the day. wings veteran step in to save the day. He eliminated the division of age and He eliminated the division of age and He eliminated the division of age and mixed old and young into his new mixed old and young into his new mixed old and young into his new cohorts. He then arrayed them in three cohorts. He then arrayed them in three cohorts. He then arrayed them in three lines, a nod to the past, but drilled lines, a nod to the past, but drilled lines, a nod to the past, but drilled his troops on rapidly cycling forward, his troops on rapidly cycling forward, his troops on rapidly cycling forward, not waiting for one to be pushed back not waiting for one to be pushed back not waiting for one to be pushed back before the other stepped up. The idea before the other stepped up. The idea before the other stepped up. The idea was to always keep the freshest troops was to always keep the freshest troops was to always keep the freshest troops on the front line, have them fight like on the front line, have them fight like on the front line, have them fight like mad for a few minutes, and then go to mad for a few minutes, and then go to mad for a few minutes, and then go to the back and let another line step in. the back and let another line step in. the back and let another line step in. Hockey coaches the world over are all Hockey coaches the world over are all Hockey coaches the world over are all heirs to the Marian heirs to the Marian heirs to the Marian legacy. But Marius did not stop just legacy. But Marius did not stop just legacy. But Marius did not stop just with how his army fought. He also with how his army fought. He also with how his army fought. He also changed the entire outlook of what it changed the entire outlook of what it changed the entire outlook of what it meant to be a soldier. meant to be a soldier. meant to be a soldier. Previous armies took seriously the Previous armies took seriously the Previous armies took seriously the responsibility of combat, but left the responsibility of combat, but left the responsibility of combat, but left the actual packing of equipment around the actual packing of equipment around the actual packing of equipment around the world to slaves and pack animals. The world to slaves and pack animals. The world to slaves and pack animals. The baggage trains had become unwieldy, and baggage trains had become unwieldy, and baggage trains had become unwieldy, and the number of camp followers had grown the number of camp followers had grown the number of camp followers had grown to ridiculous to ridiculous to ridiculous proportions. With poor men serving year proportions. With poor men serving year proportions. With poor men serving year round at his disposal, Marius simply round at his disposal, Marius simply round at his disposal, Marius simply ordered that the troops themselves carry ordered that the troops themselves carry ordered that the troops themselves carry their own equipment. It's not like they their own equipment. It's not like they their own equipment. It's not like they were going to argue and go home to their were going to argue and go home to their were going to argue and go home to their farms if they didn't like it. He force farms if they didn't like it. He force farms if they didn't like it. He force marched them around Italy with 70 lb marched them around Italy with 70 lb marched them around Italy with 70 lb packs until they gained the strength and packs until they gained the strength and packs until they gained the strength and stamina to move quickly without worrying stamina to move quickly without worrying stamina to move quickly without worrying about a miles long donkey about a miles long donkey about a miles long donkey train. The nobility derissively referred train. The nobility derissively referred train. The nobility derissively referred to the soldiers as Marius's mules. But to the soldiers as Marius's mules. But to the soldiers as Marius's mules. But by a factor of 10, the marching and

by a factor of 10, the marching and by a factor of 10, the marching and drilling with oversized packs left drilling with oversized packs left drilling with oversized packs left Marius's legions in the best shape of Marius's legions in the best shape of Marius's legions in the best shape of any Roman army in history. In sheer any Roman army in history. In sheer any Roman army in history. In sheer stamina, they could not be matched. and stamina, they could not be matched. and stamina, they could not be matched. and when it came time to fight, they could when it came time to fight, they could when it came time to fight, they could simply outlast an enemy who put all simply outlast an enemy who put all simply outlast an enemy who put all their energy into an initial their energy into an initial their energy into an initial charge. Finally, Marius rebranded the charge. Finally, Marius rebranded the charge. Finally, Marius rebranded the army as a career choice, not just a army as a career choice, not just a army as a career choice, not just a temporary obligation for men with better temporary obligation for men with better temporary obligation for men with better things to do. He made statutory land things to do. He made statutory land things to do. He made statutory land grants to men who serve their full 20 grants to men who serve their full 20 grants to men who serve their full 20 years of service and regulated years of service and regulated years of service and regulated dispensations of food, clothing, armor, dispensations of food, clothing, armor, dispensations of food, clothing, armor, and weapons. and weapons. and weapons. Marius also began to actively promote Marius also began to actively promote Marius also began to actively promote from within, taking the best of his foot from within, taking the best of his foot from within, taking the best of his foot soldiers and making them officers when soldiers and making them officers when soldiers and making them officers when they displayed courage and initiative. they displayed courage and initiative. they displayed courage and initiative. These commissions, of course, came at These commissions, of course, came at These commissions, of course, came at the expense of the young nobles, who had the expense of the young nobles, who had the expense of the young nobles, who had long been accustomed to simply stepping long been accustomed to simply stepping long been accustomed to simply stepping into positions of leadership without any into positions of leadership without any into positions of leadership without any real battlefield real battlefield real battlefield experience. The move at once made the experience. The move at once made the experience. The move at once made the army better, made the men love Marius, army better, made the men love Marius, army better, made the men love Marius, and hacked off the old patrician order.

and hacked off the old patrician order. and hacked off the old patrician order. But the hurt feelings of the nobility But the hurt feelings of the nobility But the hurt feelings of the nobility was of no consequence to Marius, and he was of no consequence to Marius, and he was of no consequence to Marius, and he was single-minded in his pursuit of was single-minded in his pursuit of was single-minded in his pursuit of recapturing the glory of the old Roman recapturing the glory of the old Roman recapturing the glory of the old Roman legions. They had been the best for legions. They had been the best for legions. They had been the best for years, but were dangerously close to years, but were dangerously close to years, but were dangerously close to letting it slip away out of complacent letting it slip away out of complacent letting it slip away out of complacent laziness of the patrician elites. The laziness of the patrician elites. The laziness of the patrician elites. The gic armies waiting in the north would gic armies waiting in the north would gic armies waiting in the north would not simply lay down their arms because not simply lay down their arms because not simply lay down their arms because some 10th generation Claudi led the some 10th generation Claudi led the some 10th generation Claudi led the army. And to Marius, that was all that army. And to Marius, that was all that army. And to Marius, that was all that mattered. mattered. mattered. The Kimri and Tutane of course made all The Kimri and Tutane of course made all The Kimri and Tutane of course made all of these reforms possible by simply of these reforms possible by simply of these reforms possible by simply cooling off their offensive for a few cooling off their offensive for a few cooling off their offensive for a few years. The Kimbry had decided to try years. The Kimbry had decided to try years. The Kimbry had decided to try their luck in Spain while the Tutan laid their luck in Spain while the Tutan laid their luck in Spain while the Tutan laid low in southern Gaul for a few years. low in southern Gaul for a few years. low in southern Gaul for a few years. Marius was returned for a third consil Marius was returned for a third consil Marius was returned for a third consil ship in 103 BC to continue his reform ship in 103 BC to continue his reform ship in 103 BC to continue his reform efforts of the legions. And when that efforts of the legions. And when that efforts of the legions. And when that term expired, he sought office again, term expired, he sought office again, term expired, he sought office again, not wanting all of his efforts at not wanting all of his efforts at not wanting all of his efforts at reshaping the legions to be wasted by reshaping the legions to be wasted by reshaping the legions to be wasted by some new console who did not understand some new console who did not understand some new console who did not understand what Marius was trying to what Marius was trying to what Marius was trying to accomplish. Plus, he had been preparing accomplish. Plus, he had been preparing accomplish. Plus, he had been preparing for a great showdown with the Gauls, and for a great showdown with the Gauls, and for a great showdown with the Gauls, and frankly, they were not playing their frankly, they were not playing their frankly, they were not playing their part very well. Marius had put a lot of part very well. Marius had put a lot of part very well. Marius had put a lot of effort into building an army that could effort into building an army that could effort into building an army that could defeat them, and now he wanted the defeat them, and now he wanted the defeat them, and now he wanted the credit and glory he felt he credit and glory he felt he credit and glory he felt he deserved. In 102 BC, in the midst of his deserved. In 102 BC, in the midst of his deserved. In 102 BC, in the midst of his fourth console ship and third in a row, fourth console ship and third in a row, fourth console ship and third in a row, the barbarian tribes finally obliged and the barbarian tribes finally obliged and the barbarian tribes finally obliged and set about planning invasion of Italy.

set about planning invasion of Italy. set about planning invasion of Italy. Though the Kimri and Tutan combined to Though the Kimri and Tutan combined to Though the Kimri and Tutan combined to form an army a staggering 200,000 men form an army a staggering 200,000 men form an army a staggering 200,000 men strong, they made a critical error and strong, they made a critical error and strong, they made a critical error and decided that instead of overwhelming the decided that instead of overwhelming the decided that instead of overwhelming the Romans in a single mass onslaught, they Romans in a single mass onslaught, they Romans in a single mass onslaught, they would divide and invade Italy on two would divide and invade Italy on two would divide and invade Italy on two fronts. It may have looked good on fronts. It may have looked good on fronts. It may have looked good on paper, but it let the outnumbered Romans paper, but it let the outnumbered Romans paper, but it let the outnumbered Romans off a rather large hook. With the off a rather large hook. With the off a rather large hook. With the barbarian army divided, Marius could barbarian army divided, Marius could barbarian army divided, Marius could focus on one then the other without ever focus on one then the other without ever focus on one then the other without ever facing the insurmountable odds that an facing the insurmountable odds that an facing the insurmountable odds that an army of 200,000 men army of 200,000 men army of 200,000 men presented. The Kimry circled around and presented. The Kimry circled around and presented. The Kimry circled around and were set to come into Italy through the were set to come into Italy through the were set to come into Italy through the Alps from the northeast while the Tutane Alps from the northeast while the Tutane Alps from the northeast while the Tutane were to come in along the Mediterranean were to come in along the Mediterranean were to come in along the Mediterranean coast. coast. coast. Marius sent a force under his consular Marius sent a force under his consular Marius sent a force under his consular colleagueu's direction to delay the colleagueu's direction to delay the colleagueu's direction to delay the Kimbrey's passage through the Alps while Kimbrey's passage through the Alps while Kimbrey's passage through the Alps while Marius himself took his new toy into Marius himself took his new toy into Marius himself took his new toy into France to head off the Jutanes before France to head off the Jutanes before France to head off the Jutanes before they ever got to the they ever got to the they ever got to the mountains. Further tribal recklessness mountains. Further tribal recklessness mountains. Further tribal recklessness led to another piece of good luck for led to another piece of good luck for led to another piece of good luck for Marius. A contingent of 300,000 Germans Marius. A contingent of 300,000 Germans Marius. A contingent of 300,000 Germans broke out ahead of the main barbarian broke out ahead of the main barbarian broke out ahead of the main barbarian army as soon as they caught sight of the army as soon as they caught sight of the army as soon as they caught sight of the Romans. Marius was able to route this Romans. Marius was able to route this Romans. Marius was able to route this charge with ease and place half a legion charge with ease and place half a legion charge with ease and place half a legion behind some nearby hills before behind some nearby hills before behind some nearby hills before withdrawing. The rest of the Tutane army withdrawing. The rest of the Tutane army withdrawing. The rest of the Tutane army marched forward in pursuit. And when marched forward in pursuit. And when marched forward in pursuit. And when they had passed the hidden cohorts, they had passed the hidden cohorts, they had passed the hidden cohorts, Marius turned and attacked. All their Marius turned and attacked. All their Marius turned and attacked. All their attention forward, the barbarians never attention forward, the barbarians never attention forward, the barbarians never saw the 3,000 Romans emerge from their saw the 3,000 Romans emerge from their saw the 3,000 Romans emerge from their hiding place. Unsure of who or what was hiding place. Unsure of who or what was hiding place. Unsure of who or what was attacking them from behind, the attacking them from behind, the attacking them from behind, the barbarian army became a mass of

barbarian army became a mass of barbarian army became a mass of confusion, which Marius easily confusion, which Marius easily confusion, which Marius easily exploited. The Tuton army was exploited. The Tuton army was exploited. The Tuton army was annihilated. Things did not go smoothly annihilated. Things did not go smoothly annihilated. Things did not go smoothly against the Kimbury. However, the other against the Kimbury. However, the other against the Kimbury. However, the other console for the year had been unable to console for the year had been unable to console for the year had been unable to hold them back. And by the end of 102 hold them back. And by the end of 102 hold them back. And by the end of 102 BC, Italy found itself playing the BC, Italy found itself playing the BC, Italy found itself playing the unwilling host to 100,000 barbarian unwilling host to 100,000 barbarian unwilling host to 100,000 barbarian invaders. In the elections that year, invaders. In the elections that year, invaders. In the elections that year, Marius was again returned as console. No Marius was again returned as console. No Marius was again returned as console. No sense in getting off the horse in sense in getting off the horse in sense in getting off the horse in midstream. In the summer of 101, Marius midstream. In the summer of 101, Marius midstream. In the summer of 101, Marius led the horse safely to the other side led the horse safely to the other side led the horse safely to the other side of the river, meeting and defeating the of the river, meeting and defeating the of the river, meeting and defeating the much larger barbarian army. All the much larger barbarian army. All the much larger barbarian army. All the drilling and marching proved the drilling and marching proved the drilling and marching proved the difference against the far larger but difference against the far larger but difference against the far larger but far less disciplined far less disciplined far less disciplined hordes. Marius returned to Rome and hordes. Marius returned to Rome and hordes. Marius returned to Rome and celebrated his second triumph. At this celebrated his second triumph. At this celebrated his second triumph. At this point, only Scipio Africanis loomed point, only Scipio Africanis loomed point, only Scipio Africanis loomed larger in the Roman imagination than the larger in the Roman imagination than the larger in the Roman imagination than the great gas Marius, who was now the hero great gas Marius, who was now the hero great gas Marius, who was now the hero of two separate wars against two of two separate wars against two of two separate wars against two completely different enemies. Sure, completely different enemies. Sure, completely different enemies. Sure, there was grumbling in the upper classes there was grumbling in the upper classes there was grumbling in the upper classes about this commoner who seemed to be about this commoner who seemed to be about this commoner who seemed to be making himself king, but the danger was making himself king, but the danger was making himself king, but the danger was as real for them as it was for the lower as real for them as it was for the lower as real for them as it was for the lower classes, and Marius proved himself more classes, and Marius proved himself more classes, and Marius proved himself more than up to the tasks for which he had than up to the tasks for which he had than up to the tasks for which he had been assigned. So they held their noses been assigned. So they held their noses been assigned. So they held their noses and cheered along with everyone and cheered along with everyone and cheered along with everyone else. Out of gratitude for his success, else. Out of gratitude for his success, else. Out of gratitude for his success, Marius was made console for the fifth Marius was made console for the fifth Marius was made console for the fifth time in a row in 100 BC. It may have time in a row in 100 BC. It may have time in a row in 100 BC. It may have been one console ship too many, however, been one console ship too many, however, been one console ship too many, however, as a bit of Marius's popular luster wore as a bit of Marius's popular luster wore as a bit of Marius's popular luster wore off. Grain prices were on the rise

off. Grain prices were on the rise off. Grain prices were on the rise again, and tribunes, taking a cue from again, and tribunes, taking a cue from again, and tribunes, taking a cue from the Grocy, were agitating for relief. the Grocy, were agitating for relief. the Grocy, were agitating for relief. Unrest began to ripple through the city, Unrest began to ripple through the city, Unrest began to ripple through the city, and the Senate ordered Marius to do and the Senate ordered Marius to do and the Senate ordered Marius to do something about it. Seeing the immediate something about it. Seeing the immediate something about it. Seeing the immediate expediency of restoring order to Rome, expediency of restoring order to Rome, expediency of restoring order to Rome, Marius complied. But it pitted him Marius complied. But it pitted him Marius complied. But it pitted him against the popular assemblies who had against the popular assemblies who had against the popular assemblies who had done so much to lend credibility to his done so much to lend credibility to his done so much to lend credibility to his never-ending never-ending never-ending reign. At the end of the year, Marius reign. At the end of the year, Marius reign. At the end of the year, Marius decided that enough was enough and decided that enough was enough and decided that enough was enough and announced his retirement from public announced his retirement from public announced his retirement from public life. If the story had ended there, life. If the story had ended there, life. If the story had ended there, Marius would have already secured his Marius would have already secured his Marius would have already secured his place in history as one of Rome's place in history as one of Rome's place in history as one of Rome's greatest and most famous leaders. But he greatest and most famous leaders. But he greatest and most famous leaders. But he was not done yet. was not done yet. was not done yet. Next week, the old man will be pulled Next week, the old man will be pulled Next week, the old man will be pulled out of retirement to deal with the out of retirement to deal with the out of retirement to deal with the inevitable result of Roman mistreatment inevitable result of Roman mistreatment inevitable result of Roman mistreatment of their Italian allies. In what would of their Italian allies. In what would of their Italian allies. In what would become known as the social war, Marius become known as the social war, Marius become known as the social war, Marius would again fight alongside Sullah, his would again fight alongside Sullah, his would again fight alongside Sullah, his perennial lieutenant, now a general in perennial lieutenant, now a general in perennial lieutenant, now a general in his own right. The social war would be his own right. The social war would be his own right. The social war would be the last time the two fought on the same the last time the two fought on the same the last time the two fought on the same side, and the intense rivalry between side, and the intense rivalry between side, and the intense rivalry between the two men would soon erupt into a the two men would soon erupt into a the two men would soon erupt into a bloody back and forth of purging and bloody back and forth of purging and bloody back and forth of purging and counterpurging that shocks the counterpurging that shocks the counterpurging that shocks the conscience even today.

conscience even today. conscience even today. [Music] Hello and welcome to the history of Hello and welcome to the history of Rome. Episode 32, the social Rome. Episode 32, the social Rome. Episode 32, the social war. After his final console ship in 100 war. After his final console ship in 100 war. After his final console ship in 100 BC, gas Marius returned to a BC, gas Marius returned to a BC, gas Marius returned to a self-imposed exile, and it appeared that self-imposed exile, and it appeared that self-imposed exile, and it appeared that the great general had left the public the great general had left the public the great general had left the public stage for good. stage for good. stage for good. 10 years of relative peace followed 10 years of relative peace followed 10 years of relative peace followed until in 91 BC, Rome was once again until in 91 BC, Rome was once again until in 91 BC, Rome was once again threatened by a hostile enemy, threatened by a hostile enemy, threatened by a hostile enemy, triggering Marius's return to the triggering Marius's return to the triggering Marius's return to the familiar territory of war and familiar territory of war and familiar territory of war and politics. This time, however, he would politics. This time, however, he would politics. This time, however, he would not be fighting Numidians or Gauls. not be fighting Numidians or Gauls. not be fighting Numidians or Gauls. Rather, he would be fighting the very Rather, he would be fighting the very Rather, he would be fighting the very men who helped him to defeat the men who helped him to defeat the men who helped him to defeat the Numidians and Gauls, some of them, Numidians and Gauls, some of them, Numidians and Gauls, some of them, anyway. anyway. anyway. The Roman-led Italian Confederacy, which The Roman-led Italian Confederacy, which The Roman-led Italian Confederacy, which had endured now for hundreds of years had endured now for hundreds of years had endured now for hundreds of years and had stood firm even against the and had stood firm even against the and had stood firm even against the clever might of Hannibal Baraka, whose clever might of Hannibal Baraka, whose clever might of Hannibal Baraka, whose entire strategy hinged on bringing about entire strategy hinged on bringing about entire strategy hinged on bringing about its disillusion, was finally breaking its disillusion, was finally breaking its disillusion, was finally breaking apart. The secondass status afforded the apart. The secondass status afforded the apart. The secondass status afforded the Italian allies finally became Italian allies finally became Italian allies finally became intolerable, and rather than making intolerable, and rather than making intolerable, and rather than making obviously just concessions, the obviously just concessions, the obviously just concessions, the tone-deaf Roman Senate took a hardline tone-deaf Roman Senate took a hardline tone-deaf Roman Senate took a hardline stance, initiating what was to become stance, initiating what was to become stance, initiating what was to become known as the Social War. when a known as the Social War. when a known as the Social War. when a collection of Italian allies would break collection of Italian allies would break collection of Italian allies would break away and form an independent state.

away and form an independent state. away and form an independent state. After 2 years, the Italians would After 2 years, the Italians would After 2 years, the Italians would finally be granted their simple request finally be granted their simple request finally be granted their simple request to be treated as equals. But of course, to be treated as equals. But of course, to be treated as equals. But of course, those were a bloody two years. The war those were a bloody two years. The war those were a bloody two years. The war served no one's interests and should served no one's interests and should served no one's interests and should have never started. Just another example have never started. Just another example have never started. Just another example of unnecessary carnage brought about by of unnecessary carnage brought about by of unnecessary carnage brought about by short-sighted short-sighted short-sighted pigheadedness. Trouble had been brewing pigheadedness. Trouble had been brewing pigheadedness. Trouble had been brewing for years. The fight for full Italian for years. The fight for full Italian for years. The fight for full Italian citizenship had picked up momentum citizenship had picked up momentum citizenship had picked up momentum during the tribunes of the Groey, but during the tribunes of the Groey, but during the tribunes of the Groey, but the Senate had always managed to block the Senate had always managed to block the Senate had always managed to block the extension of suffrage, more the extension of suffrage, more the extension of suffrage, more concerned with the immediate political concerned with the immediate political concerned with the immediate political expediency of denying the Groey and expediency of denying the Groey and expediency of denying the Groey and their allies a victory than actually their allies a victory than actually their allies a victory than actually addressing whether or not the policy was addressing whether or not the policy was addressing whether or not the policy was right or wrong. In 91 BC, the flint was right or wrong. In 91 BC, the flint was right or wrong. In 91 BC, the flint was sparked again by a tribune named Marcus sparked again by a tribune named Marcus sparked again by a tribune named Marcus Dusus. This time, the kindling lit, and Dusus. This time, the kindling lit, and Dusus. This time, the kindling lit, and pretty soon, a full-scale bonfire was pretty soon, a full-scale bonfire was pretty soon, a full-scale bonfire was raging. raging. raging. In the past, the Confederate arrangement In the past, the Confederate arrangement In the past, the Confederate arrangement between Rome and the Allied Italian between Rome and the Allied Italian between Rome and the Allied Italian cities had served everyone well. The cities had served everyone well. The cities had served everyone well. The Italians were nominally independent, but Italians were nominally independent, but Italians were nominally independent, but were required to provide troops to serve were required to provide troops to serve were required to provide troops to serve in the legions if Rome required it. In in the legions if Rome required it. In in the legions if Rome required it. In return for their troop levies, the return for their troop levies, the return for their troop levies, the Italians had always shared generously in Italians had always shared generously in Italians had always shared generously in the spoils of war and found their formal the spoils of war and found their formal the spoils of war and found their formal taxes kept to a bare minimum. But in taxes kept to a bare minimum. But in taxes kept to a bare minimum. But in recent decades, while their commitment recent decades, while their commitment recent decades, while their commitment increased, by the turn of the 1st increased, by the turn of the 1st increased, by the turn of the 1st century BC, fully 65% of the raised century BC, fully 65% of the raised century BC, fully 65% of the raised legions were composed of non- Roman legions were composed of non- Roman legions were composed of non- Roman Italians, war booty was increasingly Italians, war booty was increasingly Italians, war booty was increasingly held by the Roman leadership. This began

held by the Roman leadership. This began held by the Roman leadership. This began to irk the Italians, but they had no to irk the Italians, but they had no to irk the Italians, but they had no official way to address the situation official way to address the situation official way to address the situation and had no say in the election of the and had no say in the election of the and had no say in the election of the consils, who had now grown accustomed to consils, who had now grown accustomed to consils, who had now grown accustomed to giving their allies the shaft. Their giving their allies the shaft. Their giving their allies the shaft. Their attitude grew steadily worse after attitude grew steadily worse after attitude grew steadily worse after Marius eliminated the distinction Marius eliminated the distinction Marius eliminated the distinction between Roman and non-Roman legions. between Roman and non-Roman legions. between Roman and non-Roman legions. Indeed, Marius famously stated that in Indeed, Marius famously stated that in Indeed, Marius famously stated that in the den of battle, he could not tell the den of battle, he could not tell the den of battle, he could not tell Roman an ally Roman an ally Roman an ally apart. So, here they were literally apart. So, here they were literally apart. So, here they were literally fighting side by side with the Romans, fighting side by side with the Romans, fighting side by side with the Romans, but taking home an increasingly reduced but taking home an increasingly reduced but taking home an increasingly reduced share of the profits. share of the profits. share of the profits. Many assumed after Marius's reform that Many assumed after Marius's reform that Many assumed after Marius's reform that citizenship would soon follow, leaving citizenship would soon follow, leaving citizenship would soon follow, leaving them bitterly disappointed when the them bitterly disappointed when the them bitterly disappointed when the Senate refused to take up the Senate refused to take up the Senate refused to take up the issue. Finally, in ' 91, a tribune named issue. Finally, in ' 91, a tribune named issue. Finally, in ' 91, a tribune named Marcus Livius Dusus introduced Marcus Livius Dusus introduced Marcus Livius Dusus introduced legislation aimed at providing full legislation aimed at providing full legislation aimed at providing full equality to the Italians. Oddly enough, equality to the Italians. Oddly enough, equality to the Italians. Oddly enough, Dusus was no radical popular. Indeed, Dusus was no radical popular. Indeed, Dusus was no radical popular. Indeed, his legislation was aimed at diminishing his legislation was aimed at diminishing his legislation was aimed at diminishing the ability of rabble rousing tribunes the ability of rabble rousing tribunes the ability of rabble rousing tribunes to sway the hordes of Rome against the to sway the hordes of Rome against the to sway the hordes of Rome against the Senate, who Dus saw as the true Senate, who Dus saw as the true Senate, who Dus saw as the true defenders of Republican virtue by defenders of Republican virtue by defenders of Republican virtue by introducing more level-headed introducing more level-headed introducing more level-headed middle-class Italians into the middle-class Italians into the middle-class Italians into the electorate. Dusus hoped to shift power electorate. Dusus hoped to shift power electorate. Dusus hoped to shift power away from the populist demagogues who away from the populist demagogues who away from the populist demagogues who had only the narrow interests of their had only the narrow interests of their had only the narrow interests of their constituents at heart. The Senate didn't constituents at heart. The Senate didn't constituents at heart. The Senate didn't pick up on the vibe Dus was laying down, pick up on the vibe Dus was laying down, pick up on the vibe Dus was laying down, however, and immediately opposed the however, and immediately opposed the however, and immediately opposed the idea. They were confident in their hold idea. They were confident in their hold idea. They were confident in their hold on power and didn't want to introduce an on power and didn't want to introduce an on power and didn't want to introduce an unstable element into the equation.

unstable element into the equation. unstable element into the equation. Besides, they might start peeling off Besides, they might start peeling off Besides, they might start peeling off some of those riches the senators had some of those riches the senators had some of those riches the senators had been hoarding for been hoarding for been hoarding for themselves. So, oblivious to their own themselves. So, oblivious to their own themselves. So, oblivious to their own long-term self-interest, a cabal of long-term self-interest, a cabal of long-term self-interest, a cabal of patricians conspired to put a stop to patricians conspired to put a stop to patricians conspired to put a stop to Dusus. First, they killed his Dusus. First, they killed his Dusus. First, they killed his legislation. And when that didn't seem legislation. And when that didn't seem legislation. And when that didn't seem to work, they simply killed to work, they simply killed to work, they simply killed Dusus. For the Italians watching from Dusus. For the Italians watching from Dusus. For the Italians watching from the sidelines, the assassination of the sidelines, the assassination of the sidelines, the assassination of Derus was the final straw. They really Derus was the final straw. They really Derus was the final straw. They really thought that this time around the Senate thought that this time around the Senate thought that this time around the Senate would listen and make them full equals. would listen and make them full equals. would listen and make them full equals. The dead tribune's body, however, told The dead tribune's body, however, told The dead tribune's body, however, told them everything they needed to know. The them everything they needed to know. The them everything they needed to know. The time for drastic action had time for drastic action had time for drastic action had arrived. One by one, Italian cities arrived. One by one, Italian cities arrived. One by one, Italian cities began to openly declare that they no began to openly declare that they no began to openly declare that they no longer bore any allegiance to Rome and longer bore any allegiance to Rome and longer bore any allegiance to Rome and henceforth would be completely free and henceforth would be completely free and henceforth would be completely free and independent. independent. independent. At the vanguard of this movement were At the vanguard of this movement were At the vanguard of this movement were the Samites, one of Rome's oldest foes the Samites, one of Rome's oldest foes the Samites, one of Rome's oldest foes who had never fully gotten over their who had never fully gotten over their who had never fully gotten over their final defeat some 200 years final defeat some 200 years final defeat some 200 years earlier. In Rome, the news was greeted earlier. In Rome, the news was greeted earlier. In Rome, the news was greeted with furious disbelief. To them, the with furious disbelief. To them, the with furious disbelief. To them, the issue of who ruled Italy had been solved issue of who ruled Italy had been solved issue of who ruled Italy had been solved at the close of the Samite Wars, but the at the close of the Samite Wars, but the at the close of the Samite Wars, but the disbelief did not delay their actions, disbelief did not delay their actions, disbelief did not delay their actions, and legions were immediately raised to and legions were immediately raised to and legions were immediately raised to put the upstarts back in their place.

put the upstarts back in their place. put the upstarts back in their place. Across Italy, though, town after town Across Italy, though, town after town Across Italy, though, town after town joined with the anti-Roman Confederacy. joined with the anti-Roman Confederacy. joined with the anti-Roman Confederacy. The only region to remain steadfastly in The only region to remain steadfastly in The only region to remain steadfastly in the Roman camp were the Latins. Everyone the Roman camp were the Latins. Everyone the Roman camp were the Latins. Everyone else, it seemed, was going to take their else, it seemed, was going to take their else, it seemed, was going to take their shot at independence. It did not, shot at independence. It did not, shot at independence. It did not, however, turn out to be a very good however, turn out to be a very good however, turn out to be a very good shot. In the city of cornfinium, which shot. In the city of cornfinium, which shot. In the city of cornfinium, which lay across the Aenines due east of Rome, lay across the Aenines due east of Rome, lay across the Aenines due east of Rome, representatives of the various Italian representatives of the various Italian representatives of the various Italian cities gathered to formalize their cities gathered to formalize their cities gathered to formalize their alliance. They renamed Cornfinia alliance. They renamed Cornfinia alliance. They renamed Cornfinia Metallica and declared that it was the Metallica and declared that it was the Metallica and declared that it was the seat of a new government based on the seat of a new government based on the seat of a new government based on the Roman model, complete with its own Roman model, complete with its own Roman model, complete with its own Senate and assemblies, but completely Senate and assemblies, but completely Senate and assemblies, but completely free of Roman free of Roman free of Roman rule. The immediate business of the new rule. The immediate business of the new rule. The immediate business of the new Italian government was the very war Italian government was the very war Italian government was the very war their existence had sparked. The Romans their existence had sparked. The Romans their existence had sparked. The Romans were not going to take this rebellion were not going to take this rebellion were not going to take this rebellion with grace and good humor, so with grace and good humor, so with grace and good humor, so preparations had to be made to withstand preparations had to be made to withstand preparations had to be made to withstand the inevitable onslaught. the inevitable onslaught. the inevitable onslaught. The Romans, quick with the rod, sent The Romans, quick with the rod, sent The Romans, quick with the rod, sent their consular armies out in opposite their consular armies out in opposite their consular armies out in opposite directions in 90 BC, one north and one directions in 90 BC, one north and one directions in 90 BC, one north and one south, to put the revolt south, to put the revolt south, to put the revolt down. To the north went the consul down. To the north went the consul down. To the north went the consul Publius Ratilius, who coaxed out of Publius Ratilius, who coaxed out of Publius Ratilius, who coaxed out of retirement his famous relative Gas retirement his famous relative Gas retirement his famous relative Gas Marius to act as a military adviser. It Marius to act as a military adviser. It Marius to act as a military adviser. It didn't do much good though, as Ratilius didn't do much good though, as Ratilius didn't do much good though, as Ratilius quickly led his army to a series of quickly led his army to a series of quickly led his army to a series of blundering, mistakrone defeats. Finally, blundering, mistakrone defeats. Finally, blundering, mistakrone defeats. Finally, the console made his one positive the console made his one positive the console made his one positive contribution to the war effort by contribution to the war effort by contribution to the war effort by getting himself killed. After the getting himself killed. After the getting himself killed. After the consil's death, Marius stepped into the

consil's death, Marius stepped into the consil's death, Marius stepped into the leadership vacuum and quickly had the leadership vacuum and quickly had the leadership vacuum and quickly had the northern Italians on the run. With the northern Italians on the run. With the northern Italians on the run. With the situation in the north for the most part situation in the north for the most part situation in the north for the most part well in hand, the focus of the Romans well in hand, the focus of the Romans well in hand, the focus of the Romans turned south where they faced the turned south where they faced the turned south where they faced the horrible deja vu of crossing swords with horrible deja vu of crossing swords with horrible deja vu of crossing swords with the dreaded the dreaded the dreaded Sammites. Lucius Julius Caesar, the Sammites. Lucius Julius Caesar, the Sammites. Lucius Julius Caesar, the console leading the Romans in the south console leading the Romans in the south console leading the Romans in the south and the elder relative of a 10-year-old and the elder relative of a 10-year-old and the elder relative of a 10-year-old boy named Gas, found the Samites no less boy named Gas, found the Samites no less boy named Gas, found the Samites no less fierce an opponent than when last they fierce an opponent than when last they fierce an opponent than when last they met in battle. Caesar along with his met in battle. Caesar along with his met in battle. Caesar along with his fellow commander Lucius Cornelius Sullah fellow commander Lucius Cornelius Sullah fellow commander Lucius Cornelius Sullah watched in vain as the Samites sacked a watched in vain as the Samites sacked a watched in vain as the Samites sacked a number of Roman number of Roman number of Roman towns. But they were finally able to towns. But they were finally able to towns. But they were finally able to halt the advance and keep the Sam Knits halt the advance and keep the Sam Knits halt the advance and keep the Sam Knits bottled up while Caesar returned to Rome bottled up while Caesar returned to Rome bottled up while Caesar returned to Rome to oversee the consular elections. to oversee the consular elections. to oversee the consular elections. But before he left office, Caesar laid But before he left office, Caesar laid But before he left office, Caesar laid the political foundation of the war's the political foundation of the war's the political foundation of the war's end. The Senate, understanding now that end. The Senate, understanding now that end. The Senate, understanding now that citizenship was inevitable, passed the citizenship was inevitable, passed the citizenship was inevitable, passed the Lex Julia, granting citizenship to those Lex Julia, granting citizenship to those Lex Julia, granting citizenship to those Italian cities who had not joined the Italian cities who had not joined the Italian cities who had not joined the rebellion and offering it to any Italian rebellion and offering it to any Italian rebellion and offering it to any Italian currently in revolt who laid down his currently in revolt who laid down his currently in revolt who laid down his arms. The vast majority of Italians to arms. The vast majority of Italians to arms. The vast majority of Italians to whom independence had been an unwelcome whom independence had been an unwelcome whom independence had been an unwelcome state anyway jumped at the chance. But state anyway jumped at the chance. But state anyway jumped at the chance. But the Samites and a collection of tribes the Samites and a collection of tribes the Samites and a collection of tribes in the north continued to hold in the north continued to hold in the north continued to hold out. In 89 BC, Solo was given full out. In 89 BC, Solo was given full out. In 89 BC, Solo was given full command of the southern troops and command of the southern troops and command of the southern troops and showed himself to be a brilliant showed himself to be a brilliant showed himself to be a brilliant tactician and leader of men. After tactician and leader of men. After tactician and leader of men. After saving a besieged legion at the city of saving a besieged legion at the city of saving a besieged legion at the city of Anola, Sullah was awarded the grass

Anola, Sullah was awarded the grass Anola, Sullah was awarded the grass crown by the grateful soldiers whose crown by the grateful soldiers whose crown by the grateful soldiers whose lives he had saved. His fame was growing lives he had saved. His fame was growing lives he had saved. His fame was growing and to the people of Rome, Sullah and to the people of Rome, Sullah and to the people of Rome, Sullah emerged as the clear hero of the social emerged as the clear hero of the social emerged as the clear hero of the social war. war. war. This did not sit well with Marius, who This did not sit well with Marius, who This did not sit well with Marius, who had been maneuvered out of his command had been maneuvered out of his command had been maneuvered out of his command in the north when the Senate, afraid of in the north when the Senate, afraid of in the north when the Senate, afraid of the old console returning to the the old console returning to the the old console returning to the political arena, gave the North over to political arena, gave the North over to political arena, gave the North over to Capio, the son of the console who had Capio, the son of the console who had Capio, the son of the console who had left Malius out to dry during the war left Malius out to dry during the war left Malius out to dry during the war against the Gauls. But when Capio fell against the Gauls. But when Capio fell against the Gauls. But when Capio fell in battle, Margus was sure he was in battle, Margus was sure he was in battle, Margus was sure he was destined to return to Rome, the destined to return to Rome, the destined to return to Rome, the triumphant hero. But the Senate again triumphant hero. But the Senate again triumphant hero. But the Senate again thwarted him and sent the console Pompy thwarted him and sent the console Pompy thwarted him and sent the console Pompy Strabo, the father of Pompy the Great, Strabo, the father of Pompy the Great, Strabo, the father of Pompy the Great, north to take over. There was little north to take over. There was little north to take over. There was little Marius could do and he was forced to Marius could do and he was forced to Marius could do and he was forced to play a subordinate role as Pompy laid a play a subordinate role as Pompy laid a play a subordinate role as Pompy laid a brutal siege to the town of Ascol which brutal siege to the town of Ascol which brutal siege to the town of Ascol which was the last city in the north holding was the last city in the north holding was the last city in the north holding out. Once Ascol fell, the back of the out. Once Ascol fell, the back of the out. Once Ascol fell, the back of the resistance had been broken and the fight resistance had been broken and the fight resistance had been broken and the fight went out of the Italians. By this time, went out of the Italians. By this time, went out of the Italians. By this time, most of them had already given up most of them had already given up most of them had already given up anyway, content with the fact that they anyway, content with the fact that they anyway, content with the fact that they had achieved exactly what they wanted had achieved exactly what they wanted had achieved exactly what they wanted and would soon be full equals in a and would soon be full equals in a and would soon be full equals in a united united united Italy. Sullah wrapped up the last Italy. Sullah wrapped up the last Italy. Sullah wrapped up the last pockets of resistance in the south and pockets of resistance in the south and pockets of resistance in the south and the brief social war was the brief social war was the brief social war was over. As a footnote, I should mention over. As a footnote, I should mention over. As a footnote, I should mention that during these years, a young noble that during these years, a young noble that during these years, a young noble named Cicero was punching the clock on named Cicero was punching the clock on named Cicero was punching the clock on his brief military career in order to his brief military career in order to his brief military career in order to qualify for the political career he qualify for the political career he qualify for the political career he really wanted. fighting both under Pompy really wanted. fighting both under Pompy really wanted. fighting both under Pompy Strabo and Solo. Cicero had no taste at

Strabo and Solo. Cicero had no taste at Strabo and Solo. Cicero had no taste at all for battle and never made any secret all for battle and never made any secret all for battle and never made any secret that he disliked that he disliked that he disliked war. In later life, he was given a war. In later life, he was given a war. In later life, he was given a statue of Mars by a friend to add to his statue of Mars by a friend to add to his statue of Mars by a friend to add to his growing collection. And Cicero wrote in growing collection. And Cicero wrote in growing collection. And Cicero wrote in reply, "Why send me a statue of Mars? reply, "Why send me a statue of Mars? reply, "Why send me a statue of Mars? You know I'm a pacifist." You know I'm a pacifist." You know I'm a pacifist." But from 90 to 88 BC, young Cicero did But from 90 to 88 BC, young Cicero did But from 90 to 88 BC, young Cicero did what he had to do and slogged around what he had to do and slogged around what he had to do and slogged around Samnium, knowing that no man in Rome Samnium, knowing that no man in Rome Samnium, knowing that no man in Rome could hope to lead without a few war could hope to lead without a few war could hope to lead without a few war stories to make him stories to make him stories to make him credible. Another young noble who cut credible. Another young noble who cut credible. Another young noble who cut his teeth during the social war was Nas his teeth during the social war was Nas his teeth during the social war was Nas Pompus, though his attitude towards Pompus, though his attitude towards Pompus, though his attitude towards battle was much more in keeping with the battle was much more in keeping with the battle was much more in keeping with the Roman tradition than the bookish Cicero. Roman tradition than the bookish Cicero. Roman tradition than the bookish Cicero. only 17 at the time. He was called to only 17 at the time. He was called to only 17 at the time. He was called to action in 89 BC to serve with his father action in 89 BC to serve with his father action in 89 BC to serve with his father in the north and was presumably present in the north and was presumably present in the north and was presumably present during the siege of during the siege of during the siege of Ascalum. The young Pompy, if Plutarch is Ascalum. The young Pompy, if Plutarch is Ascalum. The young Pompy, if Plutarch is to be believed, already had an air of to be believed, already had an air of to be believed, already had an air of greatness surrounding him and his fellow greatness surrounding him and his fellow greatness surrounding him and his fellow troops made comparisons to young troops made comparisons to young troops made comparisons to young Alexander the Great Escipio Aricanis.

Alexander the Great Escipio Aricanis. Alexander the Great Escipio Aricanis. Pompy and Cicero had little in common Pompy and Cicero had little in common Pompy and Cicero had little in common personally, but in 40 years, the two personally, but in 40 years, the two personally, but in 40 years, the two men, all grown up and having reached the men, all grown up and having reached the men, all grown up and having reached the pinnacle of the political ladder, would pinnacle of the political ladder, would pinnacle of the political ladder, would find themselves on the same side of a find themselves on the same side of a find themselves on the same side of a bitter civil war against a man who at bitter civil war against a man who at bitter civil war against a man who at the time of the social war was only 10. the time of the social war was only 10. the time of the social war was only 10. I often think that this was about the I often think that this was about the I often think that this was about the only time Pompy and Cicero would have only time Pompy and Cicero would have only time Pompy and Cicero would have proved a match for Julius Caesar, who in proved a match for Julius Caesar, who in proved a match for Julius Caesar, who in his good time would both outfight Pompy, his good time would both outfight Pompy, his good time would both outfight Pompy, Rome's greatest general, and out Rome's greatest general, and out Rome's greatest general, and out politics Cicero, Rome's greatest politics Cicero, Rome's greatest politics Cicero, Rome's greatest politician. But how were they supposed politician. But how were they supposed politician. But how were they supposed to know that? By the time Sull remarked to know that? By the time Sull remarked to know that? By the time Sull remarked that in the teenage Caesar he saw many that in the teenage Caesar he saw many that in the teenage Caesar he saw many Amarius, it was probably too late. Amarius, it was probably too late. Amarius, it was probably too late. Remember though that sometimes the best Remember though that sometimes the best Remember though that sometimes the best way to win is to make sure that your way to win is to make sure that your way to win is to make sure that your opponent is still a opponent is still a opponent is still a child. The social war was paradoxically child. The social war was paradoxically child. The social war was paradoxically both a war of unification and the last both a war of unification and the last both a war of unification and the last time for 70 years the Romans themselves time for 70 years the Romans themselves time for 70 years the Romans themselves were truly were truly were truly unified. In 88 BC just as the Italian unified. In 88 BC just as the Italian unified. In 88 BC just as the Italian allies were being officially enrolled as allies were being officially enrolled as allies were being officially enrolled as full Roman citizens, Solo was elected to full Roman citizens, Solo was elected to full Roman citizens, Solo was elected to his first consil ship.

his first consil ship. his first consil ship. In itself, it seemed a natural and In itself, it seemed a natural and In itself, it seemed a natural and innocuous choice. He was, after all, the innocuous choice. He was, after all, the innocuous choice. He was, after all, the hero of the most recent war. So, who hero of the most recent war. So, who hero of the most recent war. So, who better to lead Rome? Besides, in the better to lead Rome? Besides, in the better to lead Rome? Besides, in the east, Mithrates, the king of Pontis, was east, Mithrates, the king of Pontis, was east, Mithrates, the king of Pontis, was hatching the first of his seemingly hatching the first of his seemingly hatching the first of his seemingly endless merrygorounds with the Roman endless merrygorounds with the Roman endless merrygorounds with the Roman legions. Who better then to march out legions. Who better then to march out legions. Who better then to march out and face this new threat in the east and face this new threat in the east and face this new threat in the east than the great than the great than the great Sullah? Well, according to the aging Sullah? Well, according to the aging Sullah? Well, according to the aging Marius, he was. and the old general Marius, he was. and the old general Marius, he was. and the old general became convinced that it was his destiny became convinced that it was his destiny became convinced that it was his destiny to lead the legions in the to lead the legions in the to lead the legions in the east. Unfortunately, he couldn't east. Unfortunately, he couldn't east. Unfortunately, he couldn't convince anyone else to back him. And convince anyone else to back him. And convince anyone else to back him. And why should they? Sure, he had been great why should they? Sure, he had been great why should they? Sure, he had been great in his prime, but it was a different in his prime, but it was a different in his prime, but it was a different age, and it was becoming clear that age, and it was becoming clear that age, and it was becoming clear that Marius was borderline scenile and Marius was borderline scenile and Marius was borderline scenile and clearly unable to wrap his head around clearly unable to wrap his head around clearly unable to wrap his head around the fact that the world was moving on the fact that the world was moving on the fact that the world was moving on without him. Sullah was young, dynamic, without him. Sullah was young, dynamic, without him. Sullah was young, dynamic, and clearly represented the future of and clearly represented the future of and clearly represented the future of Rome. So he was unanimously chosen to Rome. So he was unanimously chosen to Rome. So he was unanimously chosen to head up the armies headed east. Marius, head up the armies headed east. Marius, head up the armies headed east. Marius, bitter in defeat, decided that rather bitter in defeat, decided that rather bitter in defeat, decided that rather than go out quietly, he would order his than go out quietly, he would order his than go out quietly, he would order his hardcore partisans to do everything in hardcore partisans to do everything in hardcore partisans to do everything in their power to reverse the decision and their power to reverse the decision and their power to reverse the decision and place Marius himself back in place Marius himself back in place Marius himself back in charge. Solo was forced to flee the city charge. Solo was forced to flee the city charge. Solo was forced to flee the city and made his way to the encamped and made his way to the encamped and made his way to the encamped legions, most of whom were loyal legions, most of whom were loyal legions, most of whom were loyal veterans of the social war.

veterans of the social war. veterans of the social war. But though he briefly held on to power, But though he briefly held on to power, But though he briefly held on to power, Marius's desperate, selfish grab Marius's desperate, selfish grab Marius's desperate, selfish grab triggered a wholly unprecedented triggered a wholly unprecedented triggered a wholly unprecedented response from Sulla, who did not take response from Sulla, who did not take response from Sulla, who did not take his eviction well. Pretty soon, word his eviction well. Pretty soon, word his eviction well. Pretty soon, word reached Marius and his partisans that reached Marius and his partisans that reached Marius and his partisans that the agrieved consul was on his way back the agrieved consul was on his way back the agrieved consul was on his way back at the head of a full consularor army. at the head of a full consularor army. at the head of a full consularor army. Sulla, it seemed, was marching on Rome. Sulla, it seemed, was marching on Rome. Sulla, it seemed, was marching on Rome. [Music] Hello and welcome to the history of Hello and welcome to the history of Rome. Episode 33, Marius and Rome. Episode 33, Marius and Rome. Episode 33, Marius and Sullah. After emerging as the hero of Sullah. After emerging as the hero of Sullah. After emerging as the hero of the social war, Lucius Cornelius Sullah the social war, Lucius Cornelius Sullah the social war, Lucius Cornelius Sullah had been elected consil in 88 BC. With had been elected consil in 88 BC. With had been elected consil in 88 BC. With the brief civil war put to rest, Roman the brief civil war put to rest, Roman the brief civil war put to rest, Roman attention was immediately diverted east, attention was immediately diverted east, attention was immediately diverted east, where Mithrates IV, king of Pontis, was where Mithrates IV, king of Pontis, was where Mithrates IV, king of Pontis, was threatening the newly incorporated threatening the newly incorporated threatening the newly incorporated province of Asia, located on the far province of Asia, located on the far province of Asia, located on the far side of the side of the side of the Aian. Trouble had been brewing for Aian. Trouble had been brewing for Aian. Trouble had been brewing for years, and in 88 BC, Mithrates did not years, and in 88 BC, Mithrates did not years, and in 88 BC, Mithrates did not simply cross the line, he jumped over simply cross the line, he jumped over simply cross the line, he jumped over it. After several run-ins with the Roman it. After several run-ins with the Roman it. After several run-ins with the Roman legions garrisoned in the east, legions garrisoned in the east, legions garrisoned in the east, Mithrates decided that the Westerners Mithrates decided that the Westerners Mithrates decided that the Westerners had to go and Anatolia should be had to go and Anatolia should be had to go and Anatolia should be returned to her native people. To this returned to her native people. To this returned to her native people. To this end, he initiated a mass slaughter that end, he initiated a mass slaughter that end, he initiated a mass slaughter that was to become known as the Asiatic was to become known as the Asiatic was to become known as the Asiatic Vaspers. Enlisting the help of locals in

Vaspers. Enlisting the help of locals in Vaspers. Enlisting the help of locals in cities across the Turkish Peninsula, cities across the Turkish Peninsula, cities across the Turkish Peninsula, anyone who so much as spoke with a Latin anyone who so much as spoke with a Latin anyone who so much as spoke with a Latin accent was targeted for death. Over accent was targeted for death. Over accent was targeted for death. Over 80,000 Roman citizens and allies were 80,000 Roman citizens and allies were 80,000 Roman citizens and allies were murdered across the east, coinciding murdered across the east, coinciding murdered across the east, coinciding with the king's invasion of Asia. The with the king's invasion of Asia. The with the king's invasion of Asia. The Romans were justifiably horrified and Romans were justifiably horrified and Romans were justifiably horrified and immediately raised an invasion force to immediately raised an invasion force to immediately raised an invasion force to avenge the avenge the avenge the slaughter. Solo was the natural choice slaughter. Solo was the natural choice slaughter. Solo was the natural choice to lead the invasion. But old Marius had to lead the invasion. But old Marius had to lead the invasion. But old Marius had his mind set on one last fling with his mind set on one last fling with his mind set on one last fling with glory and arranged for the Senate's glory and arranged for the Senate's glory and arranged for the Senate's choice of Sulla to lead to be anulled by choice of Sulla to lead to be anulled by choice of Sulla to lead to be anulled by the people's assemblies. the people's assemblies. the people's assemblies. This anulment was guaranteed when armed This anulment was guaranteed when armed This anulment was guaranteed when armed gladiatorial bodyguards and the employee gladiatorial bodyguards and the employee gladiatorial bodyguards and the employee of Marius and his allies literally threw of Marius and his allies literally threw of Marius and his allies literally threw senators out of the Senate so a quorum senators out of the Senate so a quorum senators out of the Senate so a quorum could not be reached to overturn the could not be reached to overturn the could not be reached to overturn the decision to overturn the original decision to overturn the original decision to overturn the original decision the Senate had come to decision the Senate had come to decision the Senate had come to originally. The introduction of mob originally. The introduction of mob originally. The introduction of mob violence into Roman politics violence into Roman politics violence into Roman politics precipitated by the grai was starting to precipitated by the grai was starting to precipitated by the grai was starting to become less and less an exception and become less and less an exception and become less and less an exception and more and more the rule.

more and more the rule. more and more the rule. Solo was forced to flee for his life and Solo was forced to flee for his life and Solo was forced to flee for his life and made his way to the army and camped made his way to the army and camped made his way to the army and camped along the Adriatic. The army was ready along the Adriatic. The army was ready along the Adriatic. The army was ready for the planned invasion, but before for the planned invasion, but before for the planned invasion, but before they sailed east, Solo would march them they sailed east, Solo would march them they sailed east, Solo would march them west. He incited the troops, most of west. He incited the troops, most of west. He incited the troops, most of whom were loyal to Sullah anyway, into a whom were loyal to Sullah anyway, into a whom were loyal to Sullah anyway, into a frenzy over the anti-democratic thuggery frenzy over the anti-democratic thuggery frenzy over the anti-democratic thuggery of Marius. Ready to follow Sullah of Marius. Ready to follow Sullah of Marius. Ready to follow Sullah anywhere, the console pointed them anywhere, the console pointed them anywhere, the console pointed them towards Rome and announced that with towards Rome and announced that with towards Rome and announced that with their help, he was going to evict Marius their help, he was going to evict Marius their help, he was going to evict Marius from the city. His officers were from the city. His officers were from the city. His officers were appalled. It was illegal for the legions appalled. It was illegal for the legions appalled. It was illegal for the legions to cross the traditional city live into to cross the traditional city live into to cross the traditional city live into Rome. And as much as they disapproved of Rome. And as much as they disapproved of Rome. And as much as they disapproved of Marius, they simply could not abide by Marius, they simply could not abide by Marius, they simply could not abide by Cella's brazen flouting of the law. When Cella's brazen flouting of the law. When Cella's brazen flouting of the law. When they reached the city, all but one of they reached the city, all but one of they reached the city, all but one of Cella's officers, a close lieutenant Cella's officers, a close lieutenant Cella's officers, a close lieutenant named Lucullis, refused to cross the named Lucullis, refused to cross the named Lucullis, refused to cross the line. Sullah respected their decision, line. Sullah respected their decision, line. Sullah respected their decision, but was not dissuaded from his plan and but was not dissuaded from his plan and but was not dissuaded from his plan and took the troops right into Rome. took the troops right into Rome. took the troops right into Rome. Inside the city, Marian partisans Inside the city, Marian partisans Inside the city, Marian partisans organized gladiators and slaves into a organized gladiators and slaves into a organized gladiators and slaves into a defense force. But they were no match defense force. But they were no match defense force. But they were no match for trained legionnaires. And in the for trained legionnaires. And in the for trained legionnaires. And in the brief street fighting that ensued, brief street fighting that ensued, brief street fighting that ensued, Solah's army had no trouble turning the Solah's army had no trouble turning the Solah's army had no trouble turning the pathetic defenders to heal. Marius pathetic defenders to heal. Marius pathetic defenders to heal. Marius himself barely escaped with his life and himself barely escaped with his life and himself barely escaped with his life and fled along with his son to fled along with his son to fled along with his son to Africa. Sulla restored order to Rome, Africa. Sulla restored order to Rome, Africa. Sulla restored order to Rome, had Marius declared an enemy of the had Marius declared an enemy of the had Marius declared an enemy of the state, and put the Senate back in state, and put the Senate back in state, and put the Senate back in control of the city. All of this drama control of the city. All of this drama control of the city. All of this drama filled the entirety of Salazer's filled the entirety of Salazer's filled the entirety of Salazer's council. And it wasn't until 87 BC that

council. And it wasn't until 87 BC that council. And it wasn't until 87 BC that he was actually able to lead his army he was actually able to lead his army he was actually able to lead his army out of the city to the east where they out of the city to the east where they out of the city to the east where they should have already commenceed the should have already commenceed the should have already commenceed the retaliatory campaign against retaliatory campaign against retaliatory campaign against Mithrates. But the minute Sullah left Mithrates. But the minute Sullah left Mithrates. But the minute Sullah left town, Marius began to plot his return. town, Marius began to plot his return. town, Marius began to plot his return. Many in Rome who had been ambivalent in Many in Rome who had been ambivalent in Many in Rome who had been ambivalent in the political showdown between Marius the political showdown between Marius the political showdown between Marius and Sullah had been pushed over to the and Sullah had been pushed over to the and Sullah had been pushed over to the Marian camp by Sullah's completely Marian camp by Sullah's completely Marian camp by Sullah's completely illegal and immoral seizure of the city. illegal and immoral seizure of the city. illegal and immoral seizure of the city. In 87 BC, the people of Rome did In 87 BC, the people of Rome did In 87 BC, the people of Rome did themselves no favors if they hoped to themselves no favors if they hoped to themselves no favors if they hoped to keep turmoil in the city to a minimum by keep turmoil in the city to a minimum by keep turmoil in the city to a minimum by electing his co-consils Nas Octavius, a electing his co-consils Nas Octavius, a electing his co-consils Nas Octavius, a staunch conservative and solarisan, and staunch conservative and solarisan, and staunch conservative and solarisan, and Lucius Cornelius Ca, a popular who was Lucius Cornelius Ca, a popular who was Lucius Cornelius Ca, a popular who was fast becoming the leader of the fast becoming the leader of the fast becoming the leader of the anti-sella forces in Rome. While not anti-sella forces in Rome. While not anti-sella forces in Rome. While not necessarily pro Marius, Sa nonetheless necessarily pro Marius, Sa nonetheless necessarily pro Marius, Sa nonetheless saw an alliance with the old general as saw an alliance with the old general as saw an alliance with the old general as an advantageous way to box out Cella's an advantageous way to box out Cella's an advantageous way to box out Cella's allies. Throughout 87 BC, Octavius and allies. Throughout 87 BC, Octavius and allies. Throughout 87 BC, Octavius and Sa clashed repeatedly until Sa was Sa clashed repeatedly until Sa was Sa clashed repeatedly until Sa was driven out of town by an angry mob. Once driven out of town by an angry mob. Once driven out of town by an angry mob. Once outside Rome, Sa immediately began outside Rome, Sa immediately began outside Rome, Sa immediately began gathering men who were to help him fight gathering men who were to help him fight gathering men who were to help him fight his way back to his way back to his way back to power. Marius, meanwhile, was raising an power. Marius, meanwhile, was raising an power. Marius, meanwhile, was raising an army in Africa with the intention of army in Africa with the intention of army in Africa with the intention of following the precedent Sullah had just following the precedent Sullah had just following the precedent Sullah had just set by marching on Rome and capturing set by marching on Rome and capturing set by marching on Rome and capturing the city.

the city. the city. When Marius crossed the short span of When Marius crossed the short span of When Marius crossed the short span of the Mediterranean back into Italy at the the Mediterranean back into Italy at the the Mediterranean back into Italy at the head of a loyal army, Sin saw an head of a loyal army, Sin saw an head of a loyal army, Sin saw an opportunity to strengthen his own opportunity to strengthen his own opportunity to strengthen his own position. He formally joined with Marius position. He formally joined with Marius position. He formally joined with Marius and the combined forces stormed into and the combined forces stormed into and the combined forces stormed into Rome. What followed was five straight Rome. What followed was five straight Rome. What followed was five straight days of terror and bloodshed. Marius days of terror and bloodshed. Marius days of terror and bloodshed. Marius simply released his army inside the city simply released his army inside the city simply released his army inside the city with orders to kill anyone allied with with orders to kill anyone allied with with orders to kill anyone allied with or suspected of allying with or or suspected of allying with or or suspected of allying with or suspected as having the same name as suspected as having the same name as suspected as having the same name as someone who was allied with Sullah. someone who was allied with Sullah. someone who was allied with Sullah. Noble families fled or fought depending Noble families fled or fought depending Noble families fled or fought depending on their on their on their disposition. Captured solo partisans disposition. Captured solo partisans disposition. Captured solo partisans were killed and their heads were were killed and their heads were were killed and their heads were displayed in the displayed in the displayed in the forum. Finally, after 5 days of forum. Finally, after 5 days of forum. Finally, after 5 days of unchecked violence, Sa could stand no unchecked violence, Sa could stand no unchecked violence, Sa could stand no more and ordered his own troops to put a more and ordered his own troops to put a more and ordered his own troops to put a stop to Marius's men. The army from stop to Marius's men. The army from stop to Marius's men. The army from Africa was ordered to stand down and Africa was ordered to stand down and Africa was ordered to stand down and those who refused were killed by Senna's troops. Order finally restored. troops. Order finally restored. Elections for next year's console ships Elections for next year's console ships Elections for next year's console ships were held. That Marius and SA were were held. That Marius and SA were were held. That Marius and SA were elected came as no surprise to anyone.

elected came as no surprise to anyone. elected came as no surprise to anyone. Everyone who opposed them was either Everyone who opposed them was either Everyone who opposed them was either dead or dead or dead or fled. For Marius, the election to a fled. For Marius, the election to a fled. For Marius, the election to a seventh console ship fulfilled the seventh console ship fulfilled the seventh console ship fulfilled the promise of his legendary encounter with promise of his legendary encounter with promise of his legendary encounter with the seven eagle chicks so many years the seven eagle chicks so many years the seven eagle chicks so many years before. Satisfied that his destiny had before. Satisfied that his destiny had before. Satisfied that his destiny had been met, the old general died in 86 BC, been met, the old general died in 86 BC, been met, the old general died in 86 BC, just 2 weeks after his election, leaving just 2 weeks after his election, leaving just 2 weeks after his election, leaving SA in sole control of Rome. SA in sole control of Rome. SA in sole control of Rome. While all this drama was unfolding back While all this drama was unfolding back While all this drama was unfolding back home, SW was off in the east leading the home, SW was off in the east leading the home, SW was off in the east leading the effort to repacify Greece. Mithrates had effort to repacify Greece. Mithrates had effort to repacify Greece. Mithrates had overrun the province of Asia and had overrun the province of Asia and had overrun the province of Asia and had made the Greek cities along the Aian made the Greek cities along the Aian made the Greek cities along the Aian coast his accompllices in the mass coast his accompllices in the mass coast his accompllices in the mass murder of Latins and murder of Latins and murder of Latins and Anatolia. Welcomed as a liberator, the Anatolia. Welcomed as a liberator, the Anatolia. Welcomed as a liberator, the king pressed his luck by going one step king pressed his luck by going one step king pressed his luck by going one step further and attempted to push the Romans further and attempted to push the Romans further and attempted to push the Romans out of Greece altogether. out of Greece altogether. out of Greece altogether. In his effort, he was backed by the In his effort, he was backed by the In his effort, he was backed by the Armenian kingdom, which was reaching the Armenian kingdom, which was reaching the Armenian kingdom, which was reaching the zenith of its own power. Combined, the zenith of its own power. Combined, the zenith of its own power. Combined, the two hoped to retake the eastern two hoped to retake the eastern two hoped to retake the eastern Mediterranean from the alien Mediterranean from the alien Mediterranean from the alien westerners. The ensuing war with Rome westerners. The ensuing war with Rome westerners. The ensuing war with Rome would have farreaching consequences would have farreaching consequences would have farreaching consequences rather than being pushed back to where rather than being pushed back to where rather than being pushed back to where they came from. The Romans wound up they came from. The Romans wound up they came from. The Romans wound up planting their standards even further planting their standards even further planting their standards even further from home.

from home. from home. When Solah crossed over to Aprus in 87 When Solah crossed over to Aprus in 87 When Solah crossed over to Aprus in 87 BC, he found that Mithrates was well on BC, he found that Mithrates was well on BC, he found that Mithrates was well on his way to turning the Greeks against his way to turning the Greeks against his way to turning the Greeks against Rome. In Athens, a puppet tyrant had Rome. In Athens, a puppet tyrant had Rome. In Athens, a puppet tyrant had been installed and was backed by a been installed and was backed by a been installed and was backed by a Pontic army led by Mithrates most able Pontic army led by Mithrates most able Pontic army led by Mithrates most able general, general, general, Archelaus. This would be as far west as Archelaus. This would be as far west as Archelaus. This would be as far west as Mithrates would make it, however, as the Mithrates would make it, however, as the Mithrates would make it, however, as the mere sight of the 40,000 Roman soldiers mere sight of the 40,000 Roman soldiers mere sight of the 40,000 Roman soldiers was enough to convince the remaining was enough to convince the remaining was enough to convince the remaining Greek cities to remain loyal. Greek cities to remain loyal. Greek cities to remain loyal. Solo's first order of business was to Solo's first order of business was to Solo's first order of business was to bring Athens back into the Roman fold. bring Athens back into the Roman fold. bring Athens back into the Roman fold. When he arrived though, the city was When he arrived though, the city was When he arrived though, the city was obstinate and shut its gates. So Solo obstinate and shut its gates. So Solo obstinate and shut its gates. So Solo was forced to sit back and lay a was forced to sit back and lay a was forced to sit back and lay a siege. While encamped outside the city, siege. While encamped outside the city, siege. While encamped outside the city, refugees from the Marian reign of terror refugees from the Marian reign of terror refugees from the Marian reign of terror began to trickle in, and Solo first began to trickle in, and Solo first began to trickle in, and Solo first received the news that Marius had received the news that Marius had received the news that Marius had returned to power and that he had been returned to power and that he had been returned to power and that he had been officially exiled from Rome. officially exiled from Rome. officially exiled from Rome. He maintained his focus on the task at He maintained his focus on the task at He maintained his focus on the task at hand, however, and for the rest of the hand, however, and for the rest of the hand, however, and for the rest of the year and through the beginning of 86 BC, year and through the beginning of 86 BC, year and through the beginning of 86 BC, Solo remained at the gates of Athens.

Solo remained at the gates of Athens. Solo remained at the gates of Athens. Finally, in March of 86, the vigilance Finally, in March of 86, the vigilance Finally, in March of 86, the vigilance of the Athenian defenders waned, and of the Athenian defenders waned, and of the Athenian defenders waned, and Solah stormed the walls in a midnight Solah stormed the walls in a midnight Solah stormed the walls in a midnight raid. Once inside, Sah was not feeling raid. Once inside, Sah was not feeling raid. Once inside, Sah was not feeling particularly generous and did nothing to particularly generous and did nothing to particularly generous and did nothing to reign his troops in. The slaughter was reign his troops in. The slaughter was reign his troops in. The slaughter was only halted after Greek friends of Sah only halted after Greek friends of Sah only halted after Greek friends of Sah begged him to stop the carnage. begged him to stop the carnage. begged him to stop the carnage. The Pontic army under Archelaus had The Pontic army under Archelaus had The Pontic army under Archelaus had sailed north and Sulla left Athens to sailed north and Sulla left Athens to sailed north and Sulla left Athens to lick its many wounds. On his way out the lick its many wounds. On his way out the lick its many wounds. On his way out the door, however, Sullah set fire to the door, however, Sullah set fire to the door, however, Sullah set fire to the Athenian port of Pyreus, a final Athenian port of Pyreus, a final Athenian port of Pyreus, a final reminder of what happens to those who reminder of what happens to those who reminder of what happens to those who stand against stand against stand against Rome. Solah caught up with Archelaus Rome. Solah caught up with Archelaus Rome. Solah caught up with Archelaus north of Athens in the Greek province of north of Athens in the Greek province of north of Athens in the Greek province of Biosha. The Pontic army by this point Biosha. The Pontic army by this point Biosha. The Pontic army by this point numbered 120,000, three times larger numbered 120,000, three times larger numbered 120,000, three times larger than the Roman legions chasing them. than the Roman legions chasing them. than the Roman legions chasing them. Sullah studiously avoided being drawn Sullah studiously avoided being drawn Sullah studiously avoided being drawn into a fight until he found terrain that into a fight until he found terrain that into a fight until he found terrain that would mitigate Archelaus's overwhelming would mitigate Archelaus's overwhelming would mitigate Archelaus's overwhelming numerical numerical numerical advantage. Finally, at Karania, Sulla advantage. Finally, at Karania, Sulla advantage. Finally, at Karania, Sulla found his spot. He lured Archelaus into found his spot. He lured Archelaus into found his spot. He lured Archelaus into attacking when the Romans held fortified attacking when the Romans held fortified attacking when the Romans held fortified high ground. With Sulla personally high ground. With Sulla personally high ground. With Sulla personally dashing from wing to wing to keep up dashing from wing to wing to keep up dashing from wing to wing to keep up with wave after wave sent in by with wave after wave sent in by with wave after wave sent in by Archelaus, the Romans outlasted the Archelaus, the Romans outlasted the Archelaus, the Romans outlasted the increasingly stretched thin Pontic army.

increasingly stretched thin Pontic army. increasingly stretched thin Pontic army. Seeing a shot, Sulla charged and chased Seeing a shot, Sulla charged and chased Seeing a shot, Sulla charged and chased the opposing army back towards their the opposing army back towards their the opposing army back towards their camp, encircling them before they camp, encircling them before they camp, encircling them before they reached home base. The final casualty reached home base. The final casualty reached home base. The final casualty figure showed that while the Pontic army figure showed that while the Pontic army figure showed that while the Pontic army had been slaughtered, the Romans emerged had been slaughtered, the Romans emerged had been slaughtered, the Romans emerged from the battle practically from the battle practically from the battle practically unscathed. With this smashing victory in unscathed. With this smashing victory in unscathed. With this smashing victory in Greece, Solo remained as popular as ever Greece, Solo remained as popular as ever Greece, Solo remained as popular as ever with the people of Rome despite the with the people of Rome despite the with the people of Rome despite the continuing hostility from the elites continuing hostility from the elites continuing hostility from the elites left in the city and the fact that he left in the city and the fact that he left in the city and the fact that he technically was in exile. technically was in exile. technically was in exile. Sinna was reelected consil in 85 BC and Sinna was reelected consil in 85 BC and Sinna was reelected consil in 85 BC and decided that Sulla needed to be formally decided that Sulla needed to be formally decided that Sulla needed to be formally relieved of duty not because there was relieved of duty not because there was relieved of duty not because there was any doubt he would triumph over any doubt he would triumph over any doubt he would triumph over Mithrates but because there was no doubt Mithrates but because there was no doubt Mithrates but because there was no doubt he would eventually triumph over he would eventually triumph over he would eventually triumph over Mithrates and that victory would leave Mithrates and that victory would leave Mithrates and that victory would leave Sa unquestionably the most powerful man Sa unquestionably the most powerful man Sa unquestionably the most powerful man in Rome. So SA raised an army and placed in Rome. So SA raised an army and placed in Rome. So SA raised an army and placed men with strong anti-Saions in charge. men with strong anti-Saions in charge. men with strong anti-Saions in charge. They were to find Sa, relieve him of his They were to find Sa, relieve him of his They were to find Sa, relieve him of his command and combine the two command and combine the two command and combine the two armies. However, when the army led by armies. However, when the army led by armies. However, when the army led by Lucius Valerius Flackis and Gas Flavius Lucius Valerius Flackis and Gas Flavius Lucius Valerius Flackis and Gas Flavius Fimria arrived in camp beside Sullah's Fimria arrived in camp beside Sullah's Fimria arrived in camp beside Sullah's army, things went backward. Sullah army, things went backward. Sullah army, things went backward. Sullah encouraged the new arrivals to defect encouraged the new arrivals to defect encouraged the new arrivals to defect over to his side and pretty soon the new over to his side and pretty soon the new over to his side and pretty soon the new army was hemorrhaging troops. Flackis, army was hemorrhaging troops. Flackis, army was hemorrhaging troops. Flackis, unable to make Sullah stand down, led unable to make Sullah stand down, led unable to make Sullah stand down, led his army north officially to track down his army north officially to track down his army north officially to track down the army Mithrates himself was leading the army Mithrates himself was leading the army Mithrates himself was leading towards Greece. but unofficially to towards Greece. but unofficially to towards Greece. but unofficially to simply distance himself from the simply distance himself from the simply distance himself from the seductive charisma of seductive charisma of seductive charisma of Solah. The dissension in the ranks

Solah. The dissension in the ranks Solah. The dissension in the ranks spread, however, and the remaining spread, however, and the remaining spread, however, and the remaining troops soured on Flackis. Eventually, troops soured on Flackis. Eventually, troops soured on Flackis. Eventually, his second in command, Fimria, led a his second in command, Fimria, led a his second in command, Fimria, led a mutiny. Flacus was murdered, and Fimria mutiny. Flacus was murdered, and Fimria mutiny. Flacus was murdered, and Fimria took over. But being a staunch Marian took over. But being a staunch Marian took over. But being a staunch Marian partisan, the new leader had no partisan, the new leader had no partisan, the new leader had no intention of joining with Cella. He just intention of joining with Cella. He just intention of joining with Cella. He just wanted to take Mithrates himself and wanted to take Mithrates himself and wanted to take Mithrates himself and steal Cella's thunder. steal Cella's thunder. steal Cella's thunder. Solah himself remained behind in Biosha, Solah himself remained behind in Biosha, Solah himself remained behind in Biosha, readying himself for the rematch with readying himself for the rematch with readying himself for the rematch with Archelaus, who was being reinforced from Archelaus, who was being reinforced from Archelaus, who was being reinforced from the east by the Armenians, and soon was the east by the Armenians, and soon was the east by the Armenians, and soon was back at the head of an army again back at the head of an army again back at the head of an army again numbering more than numbering more than numbering more than 100,000. The two sides met at Orcaos, 100,000. The two sides met at Orcaos, 100,000. The two sides met at Orcaos, but the outcome was no different this but the outcome was no different this but the outcome was no different this time around. The superior tactical time around. The superior tactical time around. The superior tactical ability of Sullah, which was executed by ability of Sullah, which was executed by ability of Sullah, which was executed by the far more disciplined Roman soldiers, the far more disciplined Roman soldiers, the far more disciplined Roman soldiers, was too much for the Pontic army. Once was too much for the Pontic army. Once was too much for the Pontic army. Once again, Archelaus was forced to make a again, Archelaus was forced to make a again, Archelaus was forced to make a run for it as Solah annihilated the army run for it as Solah annihilated the army run for it as Solah annihilated the army he left behind. After crossing the Helellispond behind. After crossing the Helellispond into Asia, Fimria found Mithrates and into Asia, Fimria found Mithrates and into Asia, Fimria found Mithrates and fought a limited battle that saw Rome fought a limited battle that saw Rome fought a limited battle that saw Rome get the better of the Pontic king. But get the better of the Pontic king. But get the better of the Pontic king. But without support from the Roman navy without support from the Roman navy without support from the Roman navy patrolling the Aian, Mithrates was able patrolling the Aian, Mithrates was able patrolling the Aian, Mithrates was able to slip away from Fimria. The Navy led to slip away from Fimria. The Navy led to slip away from Fimria. The Navy led by Lucas, Solo's most loyal officer, was by Lucas, Solo's most loyal officer, was by Lucas, Solo's most loyal officer, was not about to come to the aid of a not about to come to the aid of a not about to come to the aid of a political political political enemy. Mithrates, however, could see the enemy. Mithrates, however, could see the enemy. Mithrates, however, could see the handwriting on the wall, and in late 85 handwriting on the wall, and in late 85 handwriting on the wall, and in late 85 BC, he offered to come to terms with the BC, he offered to come to terms with the BC, he offered to come to terms with the Romans. The Ponty king met with Sullah, Romans. The Ponty king met with Sullah, Romans. The Ponty king met with Sullah, much to Fimria's dismay, and peace terms

much to Fimria's dismay, and peace terms much to Fimria's dismay, and peace terms were hashed out. Mithrates was to remain were hashed out. Mithrates was to remain were hashed out. Mithrates was to remain in control of Pontis, but had to in control of Pontis, but had to in control of Pontis, but had to otherwise withdraw his forces from every otherwise withdraw his forces from every otherwise withdraw his forces from every other region he occupied. other region he occupied. other region he occupied. Rome would move in and occupy these Rome would move in and occupy these Rome would move in and occupy these territories, extending Roman dominion territories, extending Roman dominion territories, extending Roman dominion even further into the east. The even further into the east. The even further into the east. The territories that had rebelled and the territories that had rebelled and the territories that had rebelled and the newly acquired regions were forced to newly acquired regions were forced to newly acquired regions were forced to pay a steep price for challenging Rome. pay a steep price for challenging Rome. pay a steep price for challenging Rome. Not only was the annual tax burden Not only was the annual tax burden Not only was the annual tax burden increased, but Solah demanded 5 years increased, but Solah demanded 5 years increased, but Solah demanded 5 years worth of back taxes at the same rate. worth of back taxes at the same rate. worth of back taxes at the same rate. The financial punishment left most of The financial punishment left most of The financial punishment left most of Anatolia deep in debt and unable to Anatolia deep in debt and unable to Anatolia deep in debt and unable to direct their wealth towards any other direct their wealth towards any other direct their wealth towards any other end than paying back Rome. end than paying back Rome. end than paying back Rome. This, in addition to filling Rome's This, in addition to filling Rome's This, in addition to filling Rome's coffers, kept them from making further mischief. With the war against Mithrati mischief. With the war against Mithrati settled, Sull returned to his war settled, Sull returned to his war settled, Sull returned to his war against his domestic political against his domestic political against his domestic political opponents. Fimria, who had taken command opponents. Fimria, who had taken command opponents. Fimria, who had taken command of the province of Asia, was of of the province of Asia, was of of the province of Asia, was of immediate concern. The mutinous general immediate concern. The mutinous general immediate concern. The mutinous general talked a good game, but the minute talked a good game, but the minute talked a good game, but the minute Sullah crossed the helispondant, Fimbury Sullah crossed the helispondant, Fimbury Sullah crossed the helispondant, Fimbury committed suicide, knowing he was no committed suicide, knowing he was no committed suicide, knowing he was no match for Sullah and would likely be match for Sullah and would likely be match for Sullah and would likely be executed one way or the other for his executed one way or the other for his executed one way or the other for his actions. With the east fully pacified, actions. With the east fully pacified, actions. With the east fully pacified, Sullah began to strategize about a Sullah began to strategize about a Sullah began to strategize about a return to Rome. Sa, who had effectively return to Rome. Sa, who had effectively return to Rome. Sa, who had effectively run the city for the past few years run the city for the past few years run the city for the past few years unopposed, was well aware that if Sullah unopposed, was well aware that if Sullah unopposed, was well aware that if Sullah came back, the party would come to an came back, the party would come to an came back, the party would come to an abrupt end. Taking advantage of some abrupt end. Taking advantage of some abrupt end. Taking advantage of some minor commotion in Yria, Sa raised an minor commotion in Yria, Sa raised an minor commotion in Yria, Sa raised an army to quell the unrest. The fact that

army to quell the unrest. The fact that army to quell the unrest. The fact that Yria lay directly between Sullah and Yria lay directly between Sullah and Yria lay directly between Sullah and Rome had nothing to do with Sa's desire Rome had nothing to do with Sa's desire Rome had nothing to do with Sa's desire to march an army there. Of course, in to march an army there. Of course, in to march an army there. Of course, in his haste, bordering on panic to get his his haste, bordering on panic to get his his haste, bordering on panic to get his army in place, Sa however pushed his army in place, Sa however pushed his army in place, Sa however pushed his troops too hard, force marching them troops too hard, force marching them troops too hard, force marching them through Snowdress to reach Yria in time through Snowdress to reach Yria in time through Snowdress to reach Yria in time to block Cella's to block Cella's to block Cella's path. In one of history's little twists path. In one of history's little twists path. In one of history's little twists of fate, Sin's soldiers mutinied and of fate, Sin's soldiers mutinied and of fate, Sin's soldiers mutinied and stoned the four-time consul to stoned the four-time consul to stoned the four-time consul to death. The path to Rome now lay open, death. The path to Rome now lay open, death. The path to Rome now lay open, and hearing the news, Sullah immediately and hearing the news, Sullah immediately and hearing the news, Sullah immediately ordered his troops to head home. Sullah, ordered his troops to head home. Sullah, ordered his troops to head home. Sullah, it seemed, was marching on Rome again. There will be no episode next again. There will be no episode next week, as I will be spending the weekend week, as I will be spending the weekend week, as I will be spending the weekend moving across town, but in two weeks, moving across town, but in two weeks, moving across town, but in two weeks, we'll return for Cella's second march on we'll return for Cella's second march on we'll return for Cella's second march on Rome. the crowning of Rome's first Rome. the crowning of Rome's first Rome. the crowning of Rome's first dictator for life and inexplicably the dictator for life and inexplicably the dictator for life and inexplicably the retirement of Rome's first dictator for [Music] [Music] life. Hello and welcome back to the life. Hello and welcome back to the life. Hello and welcome back to the history of history of history of Rome. It's been a while, I know. So, Rome. It's been a while, I know. So, Rome. It's been a while, I know. So, let's quickly recap where we're at.

let's quickly recap where we're at. let's quickly recap where we're at. In 85 BC, Sullah won his war in the east In 85 BC, Sullah won his war in the east In 85 BC, Sullah won his war in the east against Mithrates and came to terms with against Mithrates and came to terms with against Mithrates and came to terms with the rebellious king. While the war in the rebellious king. While the war in the rebellious king. While the war in Asia unfolded, Sullah had been too busy Asia unfolded, Sullah had been too busy Asia unfolded, Sullah had been too busy to worry about the fact that technically to worry about the fact that technically to worry about the fact that technically he was an official exile from Rome, a he was an official exile from Rome, a he was an official exile from Rome, a consequence of his political struggle consequence of his political struggle consequence of his political struggle with the now dead Marius and the with the now dead Marius and the with the now dead Marius and the soontobe dead Sa. But having emerged soontobe dead Sa. But having emerged soontobe dead Sa. But having emerged victorious abroad, it was time to turn victorious abroad, it was time to turn victorious abroad, it was time to turn back to his domestic political problems. back to his domestic political problems. back to his domestic political problems. SA who had been in sole control of Rome SA who had been in sole control of Rome SA who had been in sole control of Rome since Marius's death three years earlier since Marius's death three years earlier since Marius's death three years earlier knew that Sullah's imminent return did knew that Sullah's imminent return did knew that Sullah's imminent return did not bode well for him his career or his not bode well for him his career or his not bode well for him his career or his life. So he organized an army to stand life. So he organized an army to stand life. So he organized an army to stand between Sullah and Rome. But in his between Sullah and Rome. But in his between Sullah and Rome. But in his haste to block Sullah, Sa pushed his own haste to block Sullah, Sa pushed his own haste to block Sullah, Sa pushed his own troops too hard and was murdered in a troops too hard and was murdered in a troops too hard and was murdered in a mutiny in 84 mutiny in 84 mutiny in 84 BC. So that's where we left off with BC. So that's where we left off with BC. So that's where we left off with Sullah preparing to march back to Rome. Sullah preparing to march back to Rome. Sullah preparing to march back to Rome. And well, let's pick it up And well, let's pick it up And well, let's pick it up there. Inside Rome, news of Sulla's there. Inside Rome, news of Sulla's there. Inside Rome, news of Sulla's imminent return was met with panic.

imminent return was met with panic. imminent return was met with panic. Please recall that during Marius and Please recall that during Marius and Please recall that during Marius and Senna's reign, most of the Sullen Senna's reign, most of the Sullen Senna's reign, most of the Sullen supporters had been purged. So, the supporters had been purged. So, the supporters had been purged. So, the state was staffed with fierce Marian state was staffed with fierce Marian state was staffed with fierce Marian partisans who dreaded the return of partisans who dreaded the return of partisans who dreaded the return of their mortal enemy. In anticipation of a their mortal enemy. In anticipation of a their mortal enemy. In anticipation of a coming battle, the consoles chosen for coming battle, the consoles chosen for coming battle, the consoles chosen for the year 83 BC were both fierce the year 83 BC were both fierce the year 83 BC were both fierce opponents of Sulla. They were also, as opponents of Sulla. They were also, as opponents of Sulla. They were also, as it would turn out, no match for him it would turn out, no match for him it would turn out, no match for him either. Sullah was able to cross the either. Sullah was able to cross the either. Sullah was able to cross the Adriatic unopposed and landed in the Adriatic unopposed and landed in the Adriatic unopposed and landed in the heel of Italy at the head of five heel of Italy at the head of five heel of Italy at the head of five legions. Both consoles raised armies to legions. Both consoles raised armies to legions. Both consoles raised armies to prevent Sulla from moving north. Gas prevent Sulla from moving north. Gas prevent Sulla from moving north. Gas Norbonis finished his preparations first Norbonis finished his preparations first Norbonis finished his preparations first and marched quickly, intent on bottling and marched quickly, intent on bottling and marched quickly, intent on bottling up Sullah, where he had landed. But his up Sullah, where he had landed. But his up Sullah, where he had landed. But his army was made up of fresh recruits, and army was made up of fresh recruits, and army was made up of fresh recruits, and he himself was not a general anywhere he himself was not a general anywhere he himself was not a general anywhere near his rivals class. Sella blew near his rivals class. Sella blew near his rivals class. Sella blew through Norbanis without breaking a through Norbanis without breaking a through Norbanis without breaking a sweat. The defeated console was forced sweat. The defeated console was forced sweat. The defeated console was forced to flee with the remainder of his army to flee with the remainder of his army to flee with the remainder of his army to to to Capula. Next, the other console, Capula. Next, the other console, Capula. Next, the other console, Cornelius Asiagenas, marched south as Cornelius Asiagenas, marched south as Cornelius Asiagenas, marched south as the head of his army to see if he could the head of his army to see if he could the head of his army to see if he could do any better, but he didn't even get as do any better, but he didn't even get as do any better, but he didn't even get as far as Norbanis did. Upon intercepting far as Norbanis did. Upon intercepting far as Norbanis did. Upon intercepting Sullah, Asiagonus' army began defecting Sullah, Asiagonus' army began defecting Sullah, Asiagonus' army began defecting in droves to Sullah, and the console was in droves to Sullah, and the console was in droves to Sullah, and the console was forced to surrender without ever drawing forced to surrender without ever drawing forced to surrender without ever drawing his his his sword. To the Roman aristocracy, it was sword. To the Roman aristocracy, it was sword. To the Roman aristocracy, it was not hard to tell which way the wind was not hard to tell which way the wind was not hard to tell which way the wind was blowing, and many nobles who had done blowing, and many nobles who had done blowing, and many nobles who had done their best to ride out the troubles in their best to ride out the troubles in their best to ride out the troubles in inconspicuous neutrality, now began to inconspicuous neutrality, now began to inconspicuous neutrality, now began to openly break for Sullah. The governor of openly break for Sullah. The governor of openly break for Sullah. The governor of Africa, for example, Matelis Pas, a

Africa, for example, Matelis Pas, a Africa, for example, Matelis Pas, a highly respected general in his own highly respected general in his own highly respected general in his own right, took it upon himself to throw right, took it upon himself to throw right, took it upon himself to throw Marian partisans out of his province and Marian partisans out of his province and Marian partisans out of his province and thus deny Cella's enemies a source of thus deny Cella's enemies a source of thus deny Cella's enemies a source of recruits and recruits and recruits and supplies. Within the city limits, supplies. Within the city limits, supplies. Within the city limits, however, it was still dangerous to however, it was still dangerous to however, it was still dangerous to support Sullah. And one last round of support Sullah. And one last round of support Sullah. And one last round of violence against his allies swept violence against his allies swept violence against his allies swept through the city. But this would prove through the city. But this would prove through the city. But this would prove to be the final death throws of the to be the final death throws of the to be the final death throws of the Marian power structure. And soon enough, Marian power structure. And soon enough, Marian power structure. And soon enough, they would find themselves reaping what they would find themselves reaping what they would find themselves reaping what they had seown. they had seown. they had seown. In addition to Matelis's support in In addition to Matelis's support in In addition to Matelis's support in Africa, Solah also found support in Africa, Solah also found support in Africa, Solah also found support in Spain from Marcus Lysinius Craus, who in Spain from Marcus Lysinius Craus, who in Spain from Marcus Lysinius Craus, who in due course would become the richest man due course would become the richest man due course would become the richest man of his time and one of the three of his time and one of the three of his time and one of the three triumvors. Craas marched an army east to triumvors. Craas marched an army east to triumvors. Craas marched an army east to Italy, where he planned to aid Solah win Italy, where he planned to aid Solah win Italy, where he planned to aid Solah win control of Rome. control of Rome. control of Rome. The second of the three triumvers, Pompy The second of the three triumvers, Pompy The second of the three triumvers, Pompy Magnus, also decided his ambition was Magnus, also decided his ambition was Magnus, also decided his ambition was best served by throwing his lot in with best served by throwing his lot in with best served by throwing his lot in with Sullah and raising an army of his own, Sullah and raising an army of his own, Sullah and raising an army of his own, announced his intentions to fight for announced his intentions to fight for announced his intentions to fight for the exiled general. We will get to the the exiled general. We will get to the the exiled general. We will get to the third triumor, young Julius Caesar, in a third triumor, young Julius Caesar, in a third triumor, young Julius Caesar, in a moment.

moment. moment. Near the end of his term in office, the Near the end of his term in office, the Near the end of his term in office, the consulia, who had been set free by consulia, who had been set free by consulia, who had been set free by Sulliv led a new army against the Sulliv led a new army against the Sulliv led a new army against the 23-year-old Pompy, who had positioned 23-year-old Pompy, who had positioned 23-year-old Pompy, who had positioned himself in North himself in North himself in North Italy. The console clearly had no wish Italy. The console clearly had no wish Italy. The console clearly had no wish to relive the embarrassment of losing to relive the embarrassment of losing to relive the embarrassment of losing his army without a fight to the his army without a fight to the his army without a fight to the charismatic SOA. Osia, however, having charismatic SOA. Osia, however, having charismatic SOA. Osia, however, having the misfortune to be merely a leader in the misfortune to be merely a leader in the misfortune to be merely a leader in a time of extremely charismatic leaders, a time of extremely charismatic leaders, a time of extremely charismatic leaders, wound up in exactly the same boat he had wound up in exactly the same boat he had wound up in exactly the same boat he had found himself in before when he reached found himself in before when he reached found himself in before when he reached Pompy. His army defected and mass and Pompy. His army defected and mass and Pompy. His army defected and mass and the console was once again forced to the console was once again forced to the console was once again forced to flee without an army left to flee without an army left to flee without an army left to lead. As 83 drew to a close, the Senate lead. As 83 drew to a close, the Senate lead. As 83 drew to a close, the Senate leadership knew the noose was drawing leadership knew the noose was drawing leadership knew the noose was drawing close around their necks. So along with close around their necks. So along with close around their necks. So along with one of SA's old co-consils, Papirius one of SA's old co-consils, Papirius one of SA's old co-consils, Papirius Carbo, they elected 26-year-old Gas Carbo, they elected 26-year-old Gas Carbo, they elected 26-year-old Gas Marius the Younger, in an attempt to Marius the Younger, in an attempt to Marius the Younger, in an attempt to boost the morale of his father's old boost the morale of his father's old boost the morale of his father's old supporters. But the younger Marius was supporters. But the younger Marius was supporters. But the younger Marius was not his father. And besides, it is not his father. And besides, it is not his father. And besides, it is doubtful even the old man in his prime doubtful even the old man in his prime doubtful even the old man in his prime could stop Solen.

could stop Solen. could stop Solen. Now the campaign season of 82 opened Now the campaign season of 82 opened Now the campaign season of 82 opened with Matelis Pas arriving with his army with Matelis Pas arriving with his army with Matelis Pas arriving with his army in North Italy where he rendevued with in North Italy where he rendevued with in North Italy where he rendevued with Pompy. Pompy. Pompy. The newly elected console, Papirius The newly elected console, Papirius The newly elected console, Papirius Carbo, led an army north to face them, Carbo, led an army north to face them, Carbo, led an army north to face them, while Marius the Younger built an army while Marius the Younger built an army while Marius the Younger built an army to face Solah, who it was clear, would to face Solah, who it was clear, would to face Solah, who it was clear, would soon be marching on Rome soon be marching on Rome soon be marching on Rome itself. Marius found willing recruits itself. Marius found willing recruits itself. Marius found willing recruits among the Sam Knights, who feared the among the Sam Knights, who feared the among the Sam Knights, who feared the return to power of the reactionary return to power of the reactionary return to power of the reactionary conservative wing of the Roman conservative wing of the Roman conservative wing of the Roman aristocracy. aristocracy. aristocracy. They had only recently been granted full They had only recently been granted full They had only recently been granted full rights in the aftermath of the social rights in the aftermath of the social rights in the aftermath of the social war and had no intention of seeing their war and had no intention of seeing their war and had no intention of seeing their natural allies in Rome, the Marian natural allies in Rome, the Marian natural allies in Rome, the Marian popularis ousted from popularis ousted from popularis ousted from power. Would the conservative Suller power. Would the conservative Suller power. Would the conservative Suller rescend the suffrage they had so rescend the suffrage they had so rescend the suffrage they had so recently won in his inevitable post recently won in his inevitable post recently won in his inevitable post victory reorganizations? They had no victory reorganizations? They had no victory reorganizations? They had no desire to find out. With the Sam Knights desire to find out. With the Sam Knights desire to find out. With the Sam Knights on board, Marius would now at least be on board, Marius would now at least be on board, Marius would now at least be able to make a go of it against Sullah, able to make a go of it against Sullah, able to make a go of it against Sullah, who thus far looked indestructible. who thus far looked indestructible. who thus far looked indestructible. But Carbo and Marius were simply not up But Carbo and Marius were simply not up But Carbo and Marius were simply not up to the task of warding off Sulla's to the task of warding off Sulla's to the task of warding off Sulla's onslaught. This was not to say they were onslaught. This was not to say they were onslaught. This was not to say they were not capable, just they were facing some not capable, just they were facing some not capable, just they were facing some of the most accomplished generals in of the most accomplished generals in of the most accomplished generals in Roman history. In the north, Carbo was Roman history. In the north, Carbo was Roman history. In the north, Carbo was defeated by the combined army of Pompy defeated by the combined army of Pompy defeated by the combined army of Pompy and Matelis and withdrew to Aturia where and Matelis and withdrew to Aturia where and Matelis and withdrew to Aturia where he at least hoped to prevent them from he at least hoped to prevent them from he at least hoped to prevent them from marching on Rome. In the south, Sullah marching on Rome. In the south, Sullah marching on Rome. In the south, Sullah and Marius the Younger met and fought a and Marius the Younger met and fought a and Marius the Younger met and fought a prolonged battle. But as was the case prolonged battle. But as was the case prolonged battle. But as was the case throughout this civil war, defections throughout this civil war, defections throughout this civil war, defections cost Marius too many men, and he was

cost Marius too many men, and he was cost Marius too many men, and he was forced to withdraw behind the walls of a forced to withdraw behind the walls of a forced to withdraw behind the walls of a local Allied local Allied local Allied city. Leaving a siege force in place, city. Leaving a siege force in place, city. Leaving a siege force in place, Solo marched north to Aturia, where he Solo marched north to Aturia, where he Solo marched north to Aturia, where he planned to crush Carbo and then sweep planned to crush Carbo and then sweep planned to crush Carbo and then sweep into into into Rome. Sullah, however, was unable to Rome. Sullah, however, was unable to Rome. Sullah, however, was unable to dislodge Carbo from his position. But it dislodge Carbo from his position. But it dislodge Carbo from his position. But it was clear to the belleaguered console was clear to the belleaguered console was clear to the belleaguered console that he would not be able to hold out that he would not be able to hold out that he would not be able to hold out forever, and for all intents and forever, and for all intents and forever, and for all intents and purposes, Italy was in the hands of Saul purposes, Italy was in the hands of Saul purposes, Italy was in the hands of Saul already. Rather than make a last stand, already. Rather than make a last stand, already. Rather than make a last stand, Carbo slipped out the back and fled, Carbo slipped out the back and fled, Carbo slipped out the back and fled, spending the next year hiding out in the spending the next year hiding out in the spending the next year hiding out in the small islands off the Sicilian small islands off the Sicilian small islands off the Sicilian coast. In November of 82 BC, an army of coast. In November of 82 BC, an army of coast. In November of 82 BC, an army of Samites emerged to relieve Marius and Samites emerged to relieve Marius and Samites emerged to relieve Marius and his trapped army, but they were unable his trapped army, but they were unable his trapped army, but they were unable to break the siege. So the Samite to break the siege. So the Samite to break the siege. So the Samite general tried a different tact and general tried a different tact and general tried a different tact and ordered his army to march straight for ordered his army to march straight for ordered his army to march straight for Rome. Dismayed that this enemy army was Rome. Dismayed that this enemy army was Rome. Dismayed that this enemy army was in a position to actually capture the in a position to actually capture the in a position to actually capture the capital city, Solus swept in from Aturia capital city, Solus swept in from Aturia capital city, Solus swept in from Aturia to stop their advance. The two armies to stop their advance. The two armies to stop their advance. The two armies faced each other just beyond the choline faced each other just beyond the choline faced each other just beyond the choline gate in Rome's northwest quadrant. The gate in Rome's northwest quadrant. The gate in Rome's northwest quadrant. The ensuing battle was a massive and ensuing battle was a massive and ensuing battle was a massive and desperate struggle between two forces desperate struggle between two forces desperate struggle between two forces who felt their very existence at stake.

who felt their very existence at stake. who felt their very existence at stake. No victor emerging from a civil war can No victor emerging from a civil war can No victor emerging from a civil war can afford to keep their rivals alive for afford to keep their rivals alive for afford to keep their rivals alive for long. Postwar purges are usually swift long. Postwar purges are usually swift long. Postwar purges are usually swift and brutal. In the battle of the choline and brutal. In the battle of the choline and brutal. In the battle of the choline gate, Crass's famously secured victory gate, Crass's famously secured victory gate, Crass's famously secured victory for Sullah by routing the left wing of for Sullah by routing the left wing of for Sullah by routing the left wing of the Samite line. Sulla's army was able the Samite line. Sulla's army was able the Samite line. Sulla's army was able to engulf the enemy and destroy them. In to engulf the enemy and destroy them. In to engulf the enemy and destroy them. In all, it is estimated that 50,000 died in all, it is estimated that 50,000 died in all, it is estimated that 50,000 died in the fighting. the fighting. the fighting. Marius the younger upon hearing the news Marius the younger upon hearing the news Marius the younger upon hearing the news committed suicide while still under committed suicide while still under committed suicide while still under siege. Sulla now stood alone. The siege. Sulla now stood alone. The siege. Sulla now stood alone. The undisputed master of undisputed master of undisputed master of Rome. The victorious general and the Rome. The victorious general and the Rome. The victorious general and the cowed Senate that welcomed him into the cowed Senate that welcomed him into the cowed Senate that welcomed him into the city though were not content to simply city though were not content to simply city though were not content to simply let his newly won power go as a tacit let his newly won power go as a tacit let his newly won power go as a tacit understanding between the people and understanding between the people and understanding between the people and their new master. their new master. their new master. The nudge-wink dictatorships of Marius The nudge-wink dictatorships of Marius The nudge-wink dictatorships of Marius and SA would not do for SOA and the and SA would not do for SOA and the and SA would not do for SOA and the Senate proclaimed him dictator. But this Senate proclaimed him dictator. But this Senate proclaimed him dictator. But this would be no standard issue six-month would be no standard issue six-month would be no standard issue six-month constitutional constitutional constitutional dictatorship. No, Solah's dictatorship dictatorship. No, Solah's dictatorship dictatorship. No, Solah's dictatorship in an unprecedented development would in an unprecedented development would in an unprecedented development would have no term limit. Thus, Solo became have no term limit. Thus, Solo became have no term limit. Thus, Solo became Rome's first dictator for life and the Rome's first dictator for life and the Rome's first dictator for life and the doomsday clock of the republic moved doomsday clock of the republic moved doomsday clock of the republic moved closer to midnight.

closer to midnight. closer to midnight. Though there were some high-minded Though there were some high-minded Though there were some high-minded reforms Sullah had every intention of reforms Sullah had every intention of reforms Sullah had every intention of carrying out with his newfound unlimited carrying out with his newfound unlimited carrying out with his newfound unlimited power. He began his reign in true power. He began his reign in true power. He began his reign in true Machavelian fashion. Machaveveli of Machavelian fashion. Machaveveli of Machavelian fashion. Machaveveli of course advises that a prince who has course advises that a prince who has course advises that a prince who has entered office through revolution, entered office through revolution, entered office through revolution, conquest or coup ought to first conquest or coup ought to first conquest or coup ought to first eliminate all rival claimments to the eliminate all rival claimments to the eliminate all rival claimments to the throne. If one succumbs to compassion throne. If one succumbs to compassion throne. If one succumbs to compassion too soon, those rival claimments will too soon, those rival claimments will too soon, those rival claimments will become centers around which opposition become centers around which opposition become centers around which opposition can rally, forcing the prince to can rally, forcing the prince to can rally, forcing the prince to initiate ever escalating cycles of civil initiate ever escalating cycles of civil initiate ever escalating cycles of civil repressions that will make him unpopular repressions that will make him unpopular repressions that will make him unpopular with the people and lead to his with the people and lead to his with the people and lead to his downfall. Better to get all the downfall. Better to get all the downfall. Better to get all the bloodshed and terror out of the way bloodshed and terror out of the way bloodshed and terror out of the way early. That way, there will be no early. That way, there will be no early. That way, there will be no opposition to worry about. The people opposition to worry about. The people opposition to worry about. The people will soon forget the initial horror and will soon forget the initial horror and will soon forget the initial horror and regard the later mild disposition of the regard the later mild disposition of the regard the later mild disposition of the prince to be a true reflection of his prince to be a true reflection of his prince to be a true reflection of his character and he'll remain popular and character and he'll remain popular and character and he'll remain popular and most importantly in power. Machaveli most importantly in power. Machaveli most importantly in power. Machaveli pointed to the example of Sullah as the pointed to the example of Sullah as the pointed to the example of Sullah as the living embodiment of this living embodiment of this living embodiment of this theory. Dictator for life Sullah posted theory. Dictator for life Sullah posted theory. Dictator for life Sullah posted in the forum a list of Marian partisans.

in the forum a list of Marian partisans. in the forum a list of Marian partisans. 1500 men of the aristocracy he 1500 men of the aristocracy he 1500 men of the aristocracy he considered to be enemies and therefore considered to be enemies and therefore considered to be enemies and therefore now enemies of the state. He announced now enemies of the state. He announced now enemies of the state. He announced rewards for killing or capturing the rewards for killing or capturing the rewards for killing or capturing the prescribed among whom were 40 senators. prescribed among whom were 40 senators. prescribed among whom were 40 senators. In the reign of terror that followed the In the reign of terror that followed the In the reign of terror that followed the murderous frenzy ultimately engulfed murderous frenzy ultimately engulfed murderous frenzy ultimately engulfed some 9,000 men, women, and children, some 9,000 men, women, and children, some 9,000 men, women, and children, most of whom had nothing to do with the most of whom had nothing to do with the most of whom had nothing to do with the rivalry between Marius and Salah at all. rivalry between Marius and Salah at all. rivalry between Marius and Salah at all. Have you had your eye on your neighbor's Have you had your eye on your neighbor's Have you had your eye on your neighbor's house for a while? Want to get out from house for a while? Want to get out from house for a while? Want to get out from under a crushing debt? Want to bury a under a crushing debt? Want to bury a under a crushing debt? Want to bury a business rival? Well, here's your business rival? Well, here's your business rival? Well, here's your chance. Just accuse your chosen victim chance. Just accuse your chosen victim chance. Just accuse your chosen victim of Marian sympathies, and voila, your of Marian sympathies, and voila, your of Marian sympathies, and voila, your personal beef now becomes state personal beef now becomes state personal beef now becomes state policy. The killing went on for months, policy. The killing went on for months, policy. The killing went on for months, and all of Rome lived in fear of waking and all of Rome lived in fear of waking and all of Rome lived in fear of waking up and finding their names on the up and finding their names on the up and finding their names on the prescribed list, either for real or prescribed list, either for real or prescribed list, either for real or imagined reasons. In a fun twist, there imagined reasons. In a fun twist, there imagined reasons. In a fun twist, there was also nowhere for the condemned to was also nowhere for the condemned to was also nowhere for the condemned to turn, as harboring the prescribed was turn, as harboring the prescribed was turn, as harboring the prescribed was itself a capital itself a capital itself a capital crime. One young man in particular found crime. One young man in particular found crime. One young man in particular found himself in this unenviable position by himself in this unenviable position by himself in this unenviable position by virtue of having married the daughter of virtue of having married the daughter of virtue of having married the daughter of SA. Young Julius Caesar hid out for SA. Young Julius Caesar hid out for SA. Young Julius Caesar hid out for months, hopping from house to house, months, hopping from house to house, months, hopping from house to house, sheltered by pro-Solo relatives who sheltered by pro-Solo relatives who sheltered by pro-Solo relatives who begged the new dictator to allow the begged the new dictator to allow the begged the new dictator to allow the young man to young man to young man to live. Solo eventually relented to their live. Solo eventually relented to their live. Solo eventually relented to their intreaties, but with famous reluctance.

intreaties, but with famous reluctance. intreaties, but with famous reluctance. Cella could see that the ambitious young Cella could see that the ambitious young Cella could see that the ambitious young noble was dangerous in Caesar. Culla noble was dangerous in Caesar. Culla noble was dangerous in Caesar. Culla said he saw many said he saw many said he saw many Amarius. But with his strangle hold on Amarius. But with his strangle hold on Amarius. But with his strangle hold on power now secure, Solah set out on the power now secure, Solah set out on the power now secure, Solah set out on the reforms he had been planning all along. reforms he had been planning all along. reforms he had been planning all along. A true conservative, Saul had watched A true conservative, Saul had watched A true conservative, Saul had watched the transfer of power from the Senate to the transfer of power from the Senate to the transfer of power from the Senate to the tribunate with disgust. Marius, the the tribunate with disgust. Marius, the the tribunate with disgust. Marius, the greatest of the new men, had been a greatest of the new men, had been a greatest of the new men, had been a patron saint of the unwashed masses. patron saint of the unwashed masses. patron saint of the unwashed masses. Sullah aimed to restore the natural Sullah aimed to restore the natural Sullah aimed to restore the natural order of things and put the Senate back order of things and put the Senate back order of things and put the Senate back in the driver's in the driver's in the driver's seat. Among the myriad statutory seat. Among the myriad statutory seat. Among the myriad statutory revisions he was able to enact by fiat. revisions he was able to enact by fiat. revisions he was able to enact by fiat. So stripped the tribunate of all the So stripped the tribunate of all the So stripped the tribunate of all the power it had acquired since the first power it had acquired since the first power it had acquired since the first secession of the plebs. He abolished secession of the plebs. He abolished secession of the plebs. He abolished their right to veto legislation. He their right to veto legislation. He their right to veto legislation. He abolished their right to introduce abolished their right to introduce abolished their right to introduce legislation without Senate approval. And legislation without Senate approval. And legislation without Senate approval. And then he doubled the ranks of the Senate, then he doubled the ranks of the Senate, then he doubled the ranks of the Senate, packing it with supporters to ensure packing it with supporters to ensure packing it with supporters to ensure that no legislation was approved that that no legislation was approved that that no legislation was approved that did not have Solo's personal did not have Solo's personal did not have Solo's personal favor. As a final blow to the once favor. As a final blow to the once favor. As a final blow to the once prestigious office, he declared that a prestigious office, he declared that a prestigious office, he declared that a man-elected tribune was barred from man-elected tribune was barred from man-elected tribune was barred from running for any other public office for running for any other public office for running for any other public office for the rest of his life. Ambitious men were the rest of his life. Ambitious men were the rest of his life. Ambitious men were immediately diverted away from the immediately diverted away from the immediately diverted away from the tribun as a stepping stone to power, tribun as a stepping stone to power, tribun as a stepping stone to power, leaving the office deprived of both leaving the office deprived of both leaving the office deprived of both talent and power, exactly how Saul talent and power, exactly how Saul talent and power, exactly how Saul wanted wanted wanted it. But where would all those ambitious it. But where would all those ambitious it. But where would all those ambitious men go? Well, according to Sullah's new men go? Well, according to Sullah's new men go? Well, according to Sullah's new order of things, they would enter into order of things, they would enter into order of things, they would enter into the recently codified curses honor,

the recently codified curses honor, the recently codified curses honor, literally translating into the course of literally translating into the course of literally translating into the course of honor. Prior to Sullah, the path to the honor. Prior to Sullah, the path to the honor. Prior to Sullah, the path to the console ship had had its traditional console ship had had its traditional console ship had had its traditional steps, but nothing was written in stone. steps, but nothing was written in stone. steps, but nothing was written in stone. Sulla decided now was the time to Sulla decided now was the time to Sulla decided now was the time to literally write the steps in stone. In literally write the steps in stone. In literally write the steps in stone. In part to ensure that the eventual leaders part to ensure that the eventual leaders part to ensure that the eventual leaders of Rome had the requisite experience of Rome had the requisite experience of Rome had the requisite experience necessary to handle the responsibilities necessary to handle the responsibilities necessary to handle the responsibilities of state, but also in part because he of state, but also in part because he of state, but also in part because he wanted to draw out the process. A wanted to draw out the process. A wanted to draw out the process. A certain ambitious 24-year-old general certain ambitious 24-year-old general certain ambitious 24-year-old general named Pompy was already beginning to named Pompy was already beginning to named Pompy was already beginning to fancy himself one of Rome's leading men. fancy himself one of Rome's leading men. fancy himself one of Rome's leading men. So SOA moved the console ship by law at So SOA moved the console ship by law at So SOA moved the console ship by law at least 15 years in Pompy's least 15 years in Pompy's least 15 years in Pompy's future. The new path to power would future. The new path to power would future. The new path to power would start with at least 10 years of military start with at least 10 years of military start with at least 10 years of military experience beginning when a man was 20 experience beginning when a man was 20 experience beginning when a man was 20 years old and eligible to hold the years old and eligible to hold the years old and eligible to hold the office of military tribune, a quasi office of military tribune, a quasi office of military tribune, a quasi political leadership position within the political leadership position within the political leadership position within the legions. At 30, a man could stand for legions. At 30, a man could stand for legions. At 30, a man could stand for election as a quester, where they would election as a quester, where they would election as a quester, where they would serve either in Rome's financial serve either in Rome's financial serve either in Rome's financial institutions or as high-ranking aids out institutions or as high-ranking aids out institutions or as high-ranking aids out in one of the provinces. Questers were in one of the provinces. Questers were in one of the provinces. Questers were the keepers of the money, overseeing the keepers of the money, overseeing the keepers of the money, overseeing both military pay and the state both military pay and the state both military pay and the state treasuries, and as such found themselves treasuries, and as such found themselves treasuries, and as such found themselves at the center of every important at the center of every important at the center of every important political battle, as all political political battle, as all political political battle, as all political battles are ultimately about money.

battles are ultimately about money. battles are ultimately about money. If they survived the cutthroat world of If they survived the cutthroat world of If they survived the cutthroat world of high finance, a man could stand for high finance, a man could stand for high finance, a man could stand for Adal. At the age of 36, the Adidiles Adal. At the age of 36, the Adidiles Adal. At the age of 36, the Adidiles were in charge of Rome's public were in charge of Rome's public were in charge of Rome's public infrastructure, the food and water, the infrastructure, the food and water, the infrastructure, the food and water, the public temples, the sewers, and the public temples, the sewers, and the public temples, the sewers, and the roads. Of critical importance for roads. Of critical importance for roads. Of critical importance for securing long-term public support, the securing long-term public support, the securing long-term public support, the Adiles were also in charge of the public Adiles were also in charge of the public Adiles were also in charge of the public games. A man could make a good name for games. A man could make a good name for games. A man could make a good name for himself throwing lavish games, though in himself throwing lavish games, though in himself throwing lavish games, though in the process it was easy to go broke, and the process it was easy to go broke, and the process it was easy to go broke, and one might find it necessary to forge an one might find it necessary to forge an one might find it necessary to forge an alliance with a wealthy alliance with a wealthy alliance with a wealthy benefactor. The Adile ship was not a benefactor. The Adile ship was not a benefactor. The Adile ship was not a required step, but it afforded the first required step, but it afforded the first required step, but it afforded the first opportunity for a man to become opportunity for a man to become opportunity for a man to become wellknown to the general wellknown to the general wellknown to the general public. At 39, if he had not gone broke public. At 39, if he had not gone broke public. At 39, if he had not gone broke entertaining the masses, one could entertaining the masses, one could entertaining the masses, one could become a prader, of whom six were to be become a prader, of whom six were to be become a prader, of whom six were to be elected each year. The praers function elected each year. The praers function elected each year. The praers function primarily as judges overseeing Rome's primarily as judges overseeing Rome's primarily as judges overseeing Rome's complicated judiciary, but they could be complicated judiciary, but they could be complicated judiciary, but they could be assigned to lead armies or provinces and assigned to lead armies or provinces and assigned to lead armies or provinces and would, in the absence of a console, hold would, in the absence of a console, hold would, in the absence of a console, hold imperium, granting them the final word imperium, granting them the final word imperium, granting them the final word in law and order, life and in law and order, life and in law and order, life and death. The final step was, of course, death. The final step was, of course, death. The final step was, of course, the console ship. The minimum age to the console ship. The minimum age to the console ship. The minimum age to hold this highest office was 42.

hold this highest office was 42. hold this highest office was 42. You'll notice that the higher you ascend You'll notice that the higher you ascend You'll notice that the higher you ascend up the ladder, the fewer slots there are up the ladder, the fewer slots there are up the ladder, the fewer slots there are available at the next rung. If six available at the next rung. If six available at the next rung. If six patricians are all elected prader at the patricians are all elected prader at the patricians are all elected prader at the age of 39, only two of those will be age of 39, only two of those will be age of 39, only two of those will be able to win the consil ship at the age able to win the consil ship at the age able to win the consil ship at the age of of of 42. Thus, it became highly prestigious 42. Thus, it became highly prestigious 42. Thus, it became highly prestigious to attain the next office quote in your to attain the next office quote in your to attain the next office quote in your year. Cicero would often point to having year. Cicero would often point to having year. Cicero would often point to having achieved every office of the curses achieved every office of the curses achieved every office of the curses honor in his year as one of his proudest honor in his year as one of his proudest honor in his year as one of his proudest accomplishments. accomplishments. accomplishments. Now, obviously, not every man could pass Now, obviously, not every man could pass Now, obviously, not every man could pass through the entirety of this course, and through the entirety of this course, and through the entirety of this course, and one might be tempted to say, "Hang out one might be tempted to say, "Hang out one might be tempted to say, "Hang out in the quester ships for a while and in the quester ships for a while and in the quester ships for a while and build a base of power by controlling the build a base of power by controlling the build a base of power by controlling the purse strings." To prevent this though, purse strings." To prevent this though, purse strings." To prevent this though, Saul again brought to bear the often Saul again brought to bear the often Saul again brought to bear the often enacted, but often ignored statute that enacted, but often ignored statute that enacted, but often ignored statute that a man must wait 10 years before holding a man must wait 10 years before holding a man must wait 10 years before holding the same office again. He also threw in the same office again. He also threw in the same office again. He also threw in the caveat that the year after holding a the caveat that the year after holding a the caveat that the year after holding a particular office, the official in particular office, the official in particular office, the official in question must spend a year in the question must spend a year in the question must spend a year in the provinces as a pro prader or a proconul provinces as a pro prader or a proconul provinces as a pro prader or a proconul or what have you. The intent here is or what have you. The intent here is or what have you. The intent here is obvious to physically remove the obvious to physically remove the obvious to physically remove the previous year's office holder from the previous year's office holder from the previous year's office holder from the city of Rome to prevent them from city of Rome to prevent them from city of Rome to prevent them from further cultivating any relationships further cultivating any relationships further cultivating any relationships they had acquired while in office.

they had acquired while in office. they had acquired while in office. Saul hoped that his reforms would put a Saul hoped that his reforms would put a Saul hoped that his reforms would put a stop to ambitious men skipping ahead in stop to ambitious men skipping ahead in stop to ambitious men skipping ahead in line or building independent bases of line or building independent bases of line or building independent bases of support from which they could launch support from which they could launch support from which they could launch attacks on the Senate and the Republic attacks on the Senate and the Republic attacks on the Senate and the Republic in in in general. Saul honestly believed that he general. Saul honestly believed that he general. Saul honestly believed that he had made his own career an institutional had made his own career an institutional had made his own career an institutional impossibility and hoped to be the only impossibility and hoped to be the only impossibility and hoped to be the only dictator for life Rome ever saw. dictator for life Rome ever saw. dictator for life Rome ever saw. And speaking of dictator for life, in 80 And speaking of dictator for life, in 80 And speaking of dictator for life, in 80 BC, believing that he had set the ship BC, believing that he had set the ship BC, believing that he had set the ship of Rome on a safer course by of Rome on a safer course by of Rome on a safer course by re-empowering the Senate, Saul announced re-empowering the Senate, Saul announced re-empowering the Senate, Saul announced that he would be stepping down from his that he would be stepping down from his that he would be stepping down from his office at the end of the year and normal office at the end of the year and normal office at the end of the year and normal consular elections would resume. It was consular elections would resume. It was consular elections would resume. It was a decision that came as a shock to the a decision that came as a shock to the a decision that came as a shock to the entire empire and a decision that Julius entire empire and a decision that Julius entire empire and a decision that Julius Caesar would never be able to fully wrap Caesar would never be able to fully wrap Caesar would never be able to fully wrap his head around. Often mocking Solo in his head around. Often mocking Solo in his head around. Often mocking Solo in later years for not realizing what he later years for not realizing what he later years for not realizing what he had had and for his naive in believing had had and for his naive in believing had had and for his naive in believing that Rome had seen the last of its that Rome had seen the last of its that Rome had seen the last of its absolute absolute absolute dictators. Solo was not quite ready for dictators. Solo was not quite ready for dictators. Solo was not quite ready for retirement though and decided to stand retirement though and decided to stand retirement though and decided to stand for election as console the next year for election as console the next year for election as console the next year and was of course elected. But after and was of course elected. But after and was of course elected. But after this year in legitimate office was this year in legitimate office was this year in legitimate office was complete, he really did retire to his complete, he really did retire to his complete, he really did retire to his country villa where he worked on his country villa where he worked on his country villa where he worked on his autobiography and tended to his garden, autobiography and tended to his garden, autobiography and tended to his garden, leaving public life behind for leaving public life behind for leaving public life behind for good. Solo was a complicated man, and good. Solo was a complicated man, and good. Solo was a complicated man, and his peaceful stepping away from power his peaceful stepping away from power his peaceful stepping away from power tells us as much about his character as tells us as much about his character as tells us as much about his character as his violent seizure of power a few years his violent seizure of power a few years his violent seizure of power a few years previously does.

previously does. previously does. The bloodthirsty tyrant who had overseen The bloodthirsty tyrant who had overseen The bloodthirsty tyrant who had overseen the mass murderer of over 9,000 people the mass murderer of over 9,000 people the mass murderer of over 9,000 people was also the humble old man who had was also the humble old man who had was also the humble old man who had given up power to retire in given up power to retire in given up power to retire in peace. Clearly, there is no putting a peace. Clearly, there is no putting a peace. Clearly, there is no putting a box around Saul. He remains a singular box around Saul. He remains a singular box around Saul. He remains a singular figure in world history. He died in 78 figure in world history. He died in 78 figure in world history. He died in 78 BC and his gravestone was marked by an BC and his gravestone was marked by an BC and his gravestone was marked by an epitap he wrote himself, summing up his epitap he wrote himself, summing up his epitap he wrote himself, summing up his life as well as anything anybody else life as well as anything anybody else life as well as anything anybody else could possibly say would. No greater could possibly say would. No greater could possibly say would. No greater friend, no worse enemy. Seems to say it friend, no worse enemy. Seems to say it friend, no worse enemy. Seems to say it all. Solah saw himself as a champion of all. Solah saw himself as a champion of all. Solah saw himself as a champion of the old order and believed that he had the old order and believed that he had the old order and believed that he had left Rome with the institutional tools left Rome with the institutional tools left Rome with the institutional tools it needed to prolong the republic it needed to prolong the republic it needed to prolong the republic indefinitely. The Senate was back in indefinitely. The Senate was back in indefinitely. The Senate was back in charge. The populist demagogues were charge. The populist demagogues were charge. The populist demagogues were silenced and ambitious men were no silenced and ambitious men were no silenced and ambitious men were no longer able to circumvent the longer able to circumvent the longer able to circumvent the traditional path to power nor remain in traditional path to power nor remain in traditional path to power nor remain in power past their single year in office. power past their single year in office. power past their single year in office. But of course, all the revised statutes But of course, all the revised statutes But of course, all the revised statutes in the world could not distract from the in the world could not distract from the in the world could not distract from the very fact of his life and career. The very fact of his life and career. The very fact of his life and career. The last vestigages of the old republican last vestigages of the old republican last vestigages of the old republican virtue had been stripped away by his virtue had been stripped away by his virtue had been stripped away by his dictatorship, and all that remained was dictatorship, and all that remained was dictatorship, and all that remained was naked power to be acquired by any means naked power to be acquired by any means naked power to be acquired by any means necessary.

necessary. necessary. Most of Solah's constitutional reforms Most of Solah's constitutional reforms Most of Solah's constitutional reforms would be repealed within a decade of his would be repealed within a decade of his would be repealed within a decade of his death. And within three decades, Rome death. And within three decades, Rome death. And within three decades, Rome would be engulfed in a war between the would be engulfed in a war between the would be engulfed in a war between the men who looked at Sullah's career and men who looked at Sullah's career and men who looked at Sullah's career and ask themselves, as Pompy did, if Sullah ask themselves, as Pompy did, if Sullah ask themselves, as Pompy did, if Sullah could, why not me? could, why not me? could, why not me? [Music] Hello and welcome to the history of Hello and welcome to the history of Rome. Episode 35, Cassus and Rome. Episode 35, Cassus and Rome. Episode 35, Cassus and Pompy. In 78 BC, Lucius Cornelius Sulla Pompy. In 78 BC, Lucius Cornelius Sulla Pompy. In 78 BC, Lucius Cornelius Sulla died believing that he had put the died believing that he had put the died believing that he had put the republic back on track. Since the end of republic back on track. Since the end of republic back on track. Since the end of the third Punic War 80 years previously, the third Punic War 80 years previously, the third Punic War 80 years previously, Roman politics had skewed more and more Roman politics had skewed more and more Roman politics had skewed more and more towards populist demagogues, blatant towards populist demagogues, blatant towards populist demagogues, blatant corruption, and a flouting of corruption, and a flouting of corruption, and a flouting of traditional virtue. Sulla, in his role traditional virtue. Sulla, in his role traditional virtue. Sulla, in his role as dictator, had gutted the power of the as dictator, had gutted the power of the as dictator, had gutted the power of the tribunes and put the Senate firmly back tribunes and put the Senate firmly back tribunes and put the Senate firmly back in control of state affairs.

in control of state affairs. in control of state affairs. It is ironic that the supposed savior of It is ironic that the supposed savior of It is ironic that the supposed savior of republicanism had so completely assued republicanism had so completely assued republicanism had so completely assued democratic principles in the rule of democratic principles in the rule of democratic principles in the rule of law, but desperate times called for law, but desperate times called for law, but desperate times called for desperate measures. Besides, Sullah desperate measures. Besides, Sullah desperate measures. Besides, Sullah could always fall back on one of the could always fall back on one of the could always fall back on one of the first offenses a child ever learns to first offenses a child ever learns to first offenses a child ever learns to justify all of his extra legal justify all of his extra legal justify all of his extra legal activities. Marius started activities. Marius started activities. Marius started it. But as I said at the end of last it. But as I said at the end of last it. But as I said at the end of last week's episode, no amount of week's episode, no amount of week's episode, no amount of constitutional reformation could divert constitutional reformation could divert constitutional reformation could divert the gaze of ambitious men from the facts the gaze of ambitious men from the facts the gaze of ambitious men from the facts of Sullah's life and the power he had of Sullah's life and the power he had of Sullah's life and the power he had won through brute force alone. Whatever won through brute force alone. Whatever won through brute force alone. Whatever had bound the leaders of Rome to the had bound the leaders of Rome to the had bound the leaders of Rome to the traditional Republican governing traditional Republican governing traditional Republican governing apparatus and its built-in limits on apparatus and its built-in limits on apparatus and its built-in limits on absolute power had been absolute power had been absolute power had been shattered. The Groey had struck the shattered. The Groey had struck the shattered. The Groey had struck the first blow when they successfully first blow when they successfully first blow when they successfully introduced violence into the political introduced violence into the political introduced violence into the political arena. Marius hammered the point home arena. Marius hammered the point home arena. Marius hammered the point home when he brazenly stood for console ship when he brazenly stood for console ship when he brazenly stood for console ship after consil ship while Sullah himself after consil ship while Sullah himself after consil ship while Sullah himself landed the killing stroke when he had landed the killing stroke when he had landed the killing stroke when he had himself appointed dictator for himself appointed dictator for himself appointed dictator for life. The era of noble adherence to the life. The era of noble adherence to the life. The era of noble adherence to the rule of law was dead. The era of the rule of law was dead. The era of the rule of law was dead. The era of the naked power grab was at hand. Whatever naked power grab was at hand. Whatever naked power grab was at hand. Whatever great work Sella accomplished in his great work Sella accomplished in his great work Sella accomplished in his life, saving the Republic was certainly life, saving the Republic was certainly life, saving the Republic was certainly not among them. Indeed, the generation not among them. Indeed, the generation not among them. Indeed, the generation that would kill the republic grew up in that would kill the republic grew up in that would kill the republic grew up in the shadow of Solah's dictatorship. And the shadow of Solah's dictatorship. And the shadow of Solah's dictatorship. And the ring leaders of its demise were some the ring leaders of its demise were some the ring leaders of its demise were some of Solah's leading of Solah's leading of Solah's leading supporters. Two of those supporters, supporters. Two of those supporters, supporters. Two of those supporters, Marcus Lysines Cassus and Nas Pompeus Marcus Lysines Cassus and Nas Pompeus Marcus Lysines Cassus and Nas Pompeus would eventually forge an uneasy

would eventually forge an uneasy would eventually forge an uneasy alliance with an upand cominging alliance with an upand cominging alliance with an upand cominging popularity general named Julius Caesar popularity general named Julius Caesar popularity general named Julius Caesar to form the first triumphirate, the to form the first triumphirate, the to form the first triumphirate, the vehicle through which the republic met vehicle through which the republic met vehicle through which the republic met its demise. its demise. its demise. Marcus Lysinius Craas was born in 115 BC Marcus Lysinius Craas was born in 115 BC Marcus Lysinius Craas was born in 115 BC making him 33 years old during the making him 33 years old during the making him 33 years old during the battle of the choline gate and the battle of the choline gate and the battle of the choline gate and the eldest of the three eldest of the three eldest of the three triumvers. Craas was the youngest of triumvers. Craas was the youngest of triumvers. Craas was the youngest of three boys born into a well-b bredan three boys born into a well-b bredan three boys born into a well-b bredan family and was descended from Publius family and was descended from Publius family and was descended from Publius Lysenius Craas who in addition to Lysenius Craas who in addition to Lysenius Craas who in addition to serving as Pontifffects Maximus for serving as Pontifffects Maximus for serving as Pontifffects Maximus for nearly 20 years during the second Punic nearly 20 years during the second Punic nearly 20 years during the second Punic War also held the distinction of being War also held the distinction of being War also held the distinction of being Scipio Africconus' co-consul in the year Scipio Africconus' co-consul in the year Scipio Africconus' co-consul in the year 205 BC as the great general made his 205 BC as the great general made his 205 BC as the great general made his preparations to win that long war once preparations to win that long war once preparations to win that long war once and for all. Their father had been and for all. Their father had been and for all. Their father had been consil in 97 BC, governor of southern consil in 97 BC, governor of southern consil in 97 BC, governor of southern Spain from 97 to 93 BC and sensor in ' Spain from 97 to 93 BC and sensor in ' Spain from 97 to 93 BC and sensor in ' 89. The Crass's family was wealthy and 89. The Crass's family was wealthy and 89. The Crass's family was wealthy and well respected, but eventually ran a well respected, but eventually ran a well respected, but eventually ran a foul of the Marians during the foul of the Marians during the foul of the Marians during the upheavalss of the mid80s BC. Though they upheavalss of the mid80s BC. Though they upheavalss of the mid80s BC. Though they had supported Marius in the past, they had supported Marius in the past, they had supported Marius in the past, they attempted to hue a more neutral line in attempted to hue a more neutral line in attempted to hue a more neutral line in the struggle between the old general and the struggle between the old general and the struggle between the old general and his younger rival and were marked for his younger rival and were marked for his younger rival and were marked for purging. One of Crass's brothers had purging. One of Crass's brothers had purging. One of Crass's brothers had already been killed in the social war, already been killed in the social war, already been killed in the social war, but his father and remaining brother but his father and remaining brother but his father and remaining brother were caught up in the purges and were were caught up in the purges and were were caught up in the purges and were either murdered or committed either murdered or committed either murdered or committed suicide. Only Marcus escaped to carry on suicide. Only Marcus escaped to carry on suicide. Only Marcus escaped to carry on the family name, fleeing to Spain in 87

the family name, fleeing to Spain in 87 the family name, fleeing to Spain in 87 BC. In Spain, Craus was able to hook up BC. In Spain, Craus was able to hook up BC. In Spain, Craus was able to hook up with clients his father had established with clients his father had established with clients his father had established while governor and laid low while Sena while governor and laid low while Sena while governor and laid low while Sena controlled Rome. It went without saying controlled Rome. It went without saying controlled Rome. It went without saying that when news of Sullah's return from that when news of Sullah's return from that when news of Sullah's return from the east reached him, Craas immediately the east reached him, Craas immediately the east reached him, Craas immediately declared his support and left Spain declared his support and left Spain declared his support and left Spain intent on helping SOA drive the Marians intent on helping SOA drive the Marians intent on helping SOA drive the Marians out of Rome. He raised a small force and out of Rome. He raised a small force and out of Rome. He raised a small force and arrived in Italy around the same time as arrived in Italy around the same time as arrived in Italy around the same time as Matelis Pas had arrived with his army Matelis Pas had arrived with his army Matelis Pas had arrived with his army from from from Africa. Crass fought alongside Matelis Africa. Crass fought alongside Matelis Africa. Crass fought alongside Matelis until they all merged into Sullah's army until they all merged into Sullah's army until they all merged into Sullah's army prior to the battle of the Kolen Gate. prior to the battle of the Kolen Gate. prior to the battle of the Kolen Gate. And it was in that battle that Marcus And it was in that battle that Marcus And it was in that battle that Marcus Lysinius Craas became a man in his own Lysinius Craas became a man in his own Lysinius Craas became a man in his own right and was no longer seen as simply right and was no longer seen as simply right and was no longer seen as simply his father's son. With the Solo leading his father's son. With the Solo leading his father's son. With the Solo leading the left side of the line, he gave the left side of the line, he gave the left side of the line, he gave Crraus command of the right. And as it Crraus command of the right. And as it Crraus command of the right. And as it turned out, Solo found himself evenly turned out, Solo found himself evenly turned out, Solo found himself evenly matched and unable to break through the matched and unable to break through the matched and unable to break through the Sam Knight line. But Crass routed his Sam Knight line. But Crass routed his Sam Knight line. But Crass routed his opposition and was able to wheel in and opposition and was able to wheel in and opposition and was able to wheel in and trap the remaining Sam Knights, winning trap the remaining Sam Knights, winning trap the remaining Sam Knights, winning for Solah not just the battle, but for Solah not just the battle, but for Solah not just the battle, but complete control of Rome.

complete control of Rome. complete control of Rome. He expected to be amply rewarded and He expected to be amply rewarded and He expected to be amply rewarded and praised for his early support and praised for his early support and praised for his early support and critical role in Sullah's victory. But critical role in Sullah's victory. But critical role in Sullah's victory. But in the first chapter of what turned out in the first chapter of what turned out in the first chapter of what turned out to be the defining story of his life, to be the defining story of his life, to be the defining story of his life, Crass was overshadowed by the younger Crass was overshadowed by the younger Crass was overshadowed by the younger and more charismatic Pompy. Though and more charismatic Pompy. Though and more charismatic Pompy. Though mildly embittered by his perceived mildly embittered by his perceived mildly embittered by his perceived snubbing, Cras had far more important snubbing, Cras had far more important snubbing, Cras had far more important things to worry about than why young things to worry about than why young things to worry about than why young Pompy had been granted a triumph despite Pompy had been granted a triumph despite Pompy had been granted a triumph despite having never held a single office in the having never held a single office in the having never held a single office in the curses honor him. I mean, he had never curses honor him. I mean, he had never curses honor him. I mean, he had never even been a quester, let alone a prader, even been a quester, let alone a prader, even been a quester, let alone a prader, which was supposedly the minimum rank which was supposedly the minimum rank which was supposedly the minimum rank required for a triumph. And besides, he required for a triumph. And besides, he required for a triumph. And besides, he was what, 25? He couldn't stand for a was what, 25? He couldn't stand for a was what, 25? He couldn't stand for a prior ship even if he wanted to. But prior ship even if he wanted to. But prior ship even if he wanted to. But like I say, I don't care. I'm fine with like I say, I don't care. I'm fine with like I say, I don't care. I'm fine with it. I'm happy for him. Hooray for Pompy. it. I'm happy for him. Hooray for Pompy. it. I'm happy for him. Hooray for Pompy. Pompy the great. Yeah, sure. Craas Pompy the great. Yeah, sure. Craas Pompy the great. Yeah, sure. Craas didn't care at all. But instead of didn't care at all. But instead of didn't care at all. But instead of dwelling on Pompy, there would be plenty dwelling on Pompy, there would be plenty dwelling on Pompy, there would be plenty of time for that later. Craas focused on of time for that later. Craas focused on of time for that later. Craas focused on rebuilding the family fortune which had rebuilding the family fortune which had rebuilding the family fortune which had been expropriated by the Marians after been expropriated by the Marians after been expropriated by the Marians after his father's death. In this pursuit, his father's death. In this pursuit, his father's death. In this pursuit, Crass showed both above board shrewd Crass showed both above board shrewd Crass showed both above board shrewd financial acumen as well as a penchant financial acumen as well as a penchant financial acumen as well as a penchant for ruthless below the belt profitering.

for ruthless below the belt profitering. for ruthless below the belt profitering. He gleefully entered the chaotic He gleefully entered the chaotic He gleefully entered the chaotic economic mess that arose from the solid economic mess that arose from the solid economic mess that arose from the solid reign of terror. Having been a victim of reign of terror. Having been a victim of reign of terror. Having been a victim of the Marian purges, Crass had little the Marian purges, Crass had little the Marian purges, Crass had little sympathy for the men who had killed his sympathy for the men who had killed his sympathy for the men who had killed his father and brother. father and brother. father and brother. Graas was first in line to buy up Graas was first in line to buy up Graas was first in line to buy up whatever the prescribed left behind when whatever the prescribed left behind when whatever the prescribed left behind when they either fled the city or were they either fled the city or were they either fled the city or were murdered. And on at least one occasion, murdered. And on at least one occasion, murdered. And on at least one occasion, he added a name to the list simply he added a name to the list simply he added a name to the list simply because he coveted the holdings of an because he coveted the holdings of an because he coveted the holdings of an otherwise politically neutral otherwise politically neutral otherwise politically neutral rival. During Sullah's reign, Craas rival. During Sullah's reign, Craas rival. During Sullah's reign, Craas bought and sold his way to the top of bought and sold his way to the top of bought and sold his way to the top of Rome's financial food chain. And after Rome's financial food chain. And after Rome's financial food chain. And after the dictator's death, he invested his the dictator's death, he invested his the dictator's death, he invested his profits in the slave trade and silver profits in the slave trade and silver profits in the slave trade and silver mines where he doubled and then mines where he doubled and then mines where he doubled and then quadrupled his money. quadrupled his money. quadrupled his money. Eventually, he would become Rome's Eventually, he would become Rome's Eventually, he would become Rome's richest man and largest landowner. He richest man and largest landowner. He richest man and largest landowner. He never lost his lust for wealth, nor his never lost his lust for wealth, nor his never lost his lust for wealth, nor his cunning skill at acquiring it. For cunning skill at acquiring it. For cunning skill at acquiring it. For example, at the time, Rome had no formal example, at the time, Rome had no formal example, at the time, Rome had no formal firefighting service. So, when Craus firefighting service. So, when Craus firefighting service. So, when Craus learned through his city-wide network of learned through his city-wide network of learned through his city-wide network of clients and informants that a building clients and informants that a building clients and informants that a building was on fire, he would arrive on the was on fire, he would arrive on the was on fire, he would arrive on the scene with hundreds of slaves in tow.

scene with hundreds of slaves in tow. scene with hundreds of slaves in tow. With the house burning in front of them, With the house burning in front of them, With the house burning in front of them, Crass would offer to put the fire out if Crass would offer to put the fire out if Crass would offer to put the fire out if the distraught owner agreed to sell the the distraught owner agreed to sell the the distraught owner agreed to sell the property. In these circumstances, Crass property. In these circumstances, Crass property. In these circumstances, Crass was able, of course, to extract a was able, of course, to extract a was able, of course, to extract a ridiculously low price, at which point ridiculously low price, at which point ridiculously low price, at which point the slaves would indeed quell the blaze. the slaves would indeed quell the blaze. the slaves would indeed quell the blaze. Sometimes though, the owner would refuse Sometimes though, the owner would refuse Sometimes though, the owner would refuse to sell, in which case Crass would leave to sell, in which case Crass would leave to sell, in which case Crass would leave with his firefighters, allowing the with his firefighters, allowing the with his firefighters, allowing the house to be engulfed in house to be engulfed in house to be engulfed in flames. But these were the rare cases. flames. But these were the rare cases. flames. But these were the rare cases. Usually the owner sold, Crass bought and Usually the owner sold, Crass bought and Usually the owner sold, Crass bought and his private empire grew by another his private empire grew by another his private empire grew by another block. At the height of his power, Crass block. At the height of his power, Crass block. At the height of his power, Crass is estimated to have been worth between is estimated to have been worth between is estimated to have been worth between 170 and 180 billion 170 and 180 billion 170 and 180 billion 2008. To put that in perspective, the 2008. To put that in perspective, the 2008. To put that in perspective, the richest man in the world today is Warren richest man in the world today is Warren richest man in the world today is Warren Buffett, who is estimated to have a Buffett, who is estimated to have a Buffett, who is estimated to have a personal financial net worth of around personal financial net worth of around personal financial net worth of around 66 billion US. To say that Craas was 66 billion US. To say that Craas was 66 billion US. To say that Craas was absolutely filthy, stinking rich is an absolutely filthy, stinking rich is an absolutely filthy, stinking rich is an understatement. But he always carried understatement. But he always carried understatement. But he always carried with him something of an inferiority with him something of an inferiority with him something of an inferiority complex. In Roman culture, wealth may complex. In Roman culture, wealth may complex. In Roman culture, wealth may have been looked upon with envy, but have been looked upon with envy, but have been looked upon with envy, but rarely with respect or admiration.

rarely with respect or admiration. rarely with respect or admiration. Respect and admiration were reserved for Respect and admiration were reserved for Respect and admiration were reserved for military heroes. His exploits during the military heroes. His exploits during the military heroes. His exploits during the battle of the Coen Gate were always battle of the Coen Gate were always battle of the Coen Gate were always looked at sideways as they came during a looked at sideways as they came during a looked at sideways as they came during a civil war and were achieved at the civil war and were achieved at the civil war and were achieved at the expense of fellow Roman citizens. If expense of fellow Roman citizens. If expense of fellow Roman citizens. If Crus wanted to join the pantheon of Crus wanted to join the pantheon of Crus wanted to join the pantheon of great Romans, he would have to do better great Romans, he would have to do better great Romans, he would have to do better to win new territory for Rome or defend to win new territory for Rome or defend to win new territory for Rome or defend the empire from a dangerous foreign the empire from a dangerous foreign the empire from a dangerous foreign threat. threat. threat. Crass has spent his entire life looking Crass has spent his entire life looking Crass has spent his entire life looking for an opportunity to lead an army in for an opportunity to lead an army in for an opportunity to lead an army in the field, win a great victory for Rome, the field, win a great victory for Rome, the field, win a great victory for Rome, a triumph for himself, and the respect a triumph for himself, and the respect a triumph for himself, and the respect he felt he deserved. Eventually, this he felt he deserved. Eventually, this he felt he deserved. Eventually, this obsession would lead to his death in obsession would lead to his death in obsession would lead to his death in Syria, where he was killed, still trying Syria, where he was killed, still trying Syria, where he was killed, still trying to find what he was looking for. to find what he was looking for. to find what he was looking for. On the battlefield, Craas was simply On the battlefield, Craas was simply On the battlefield, Craas was simply unable to match the exploits of his unable to match the exploits of his unable to match the exploits of his contemporary rival and nominal ally, contemporary rival and nominal ally, contemporary rival and nominal ally, Pompy, who, much to Craas' eternal Pompy, who, much to Craas' eternal Pompy, who, much to Craas' eternal bitterness, seemed to live a perpetually bitterness, seemed to live a perpetually bitterness, seemed to live a perpetually charmed life. From Craas' perspective, charmed life. From Craas' perspective, charmed life. From Craas' perspective, no one got better press for doing less no one got better press for doing less no one got better press for doing less than Pompy. But there was nothing that than Pompy. But there was nothing that than Pompy. But there was nothing that he could do about it. So Craas went he could do about it. So Craas went he could do about it. So Craas went through life known as Craas Davis or through life known as Craas Davis or through life known as Craas Davis or Crass the rich. whereas Pompy went Crass the rich. whereas Pompy went Crass the rich. whereas Pompy went through life known as Pompy Magnus or through life known as Pompy Magnus or through life known as Pompy Magnus or Pompy the Great. And though the latter's Pompy the Great. And though the latter's Pompy the Great. And though the latter's nickname was originally thrown around as nickname was originally thrown around as nickname was originally thrown around as a sarcastic dig by his elders, Pompy a sarcastic dig by his elders, Pompy a sarcastic dig by his elders, Pompy eventually promoted the name as a eventually promoted the name as a eventually promoted the name as a literal title, and the people of Rome literal title, and the people of Rome literal title, and the people of Rome embraced it as such, much to Crass's

embraced it as such, much to Crass's embraced it as such, much to Crass's eternal dismay. Pompy was born in 106 BC, making him 9 Pompy was born in 106 BC, making him 9 years younger than Cassus and only 24 years younger than Cassus and only 24 years younger than Cassus and only 24 years old when Solo controlled Rome. He years old when Solo controlled Rome. He years old when Solo controlled Rome. He was the son of the not so beloved Nas was the son of the not so beloved Nas was the son of the not so beloved Nas Pompei Strabo or Pompy the Pompei Strabo or Pompy the Pompei Strabo or Pompy the Crossside. Pompy Strabo was the first in Crossside. Pompy Strabo was the first in Crossside. Pompy Strabo was the first in his family to achieve senatorial status his family to achieve senatorial status his family to achieve senatorial status and distinguished himself during the and distinguished himself during the and distinguished himself during the social war leading the victorious Roman social war leading the victorious Roman social war leading the victorious Roman armies in the north as console in 89 BC. armies in the north as console in 89 BC. armies in the north as console in 89 BC. However, when you emerge from a war with However, when you emerge from a war with However, when you emerge from a war with the nickname the butcher of anything, the nickname the butcher of anything, the nickname the butcher of anything, you know that your tactics have been a you know that your tactics have been a you know that your tactics have been a bit harsh. So, when Pompy Strabo aka the bit harsh. So, when Pompy Strabo aka the bit harsh. So, when Pompy Strabo aka the butcher of Ascolum, died in 87 BC of the butcher of Ascolum, died in 87 BC of the butcher of Ascolum, died in 87 BC of the plague, his body was dragged through the plague, his body was dragged through the plague, his body was dragged through the streets by a joyously disrespectful mob. streets by a joyously disrespectful mob. streets by a joyously disrespectful mob. Not exactly the funeral procession one Not exactly the funeral procession one Not exactly the funeral procession one hopes hopes hopes for, but the sins of the father do not for, but the sins of the father do not for, but the sins of the father do not seem to have rubbed off on the son. And seem to have rubbed off on the son. And seem to have rubbed off on the son. And when Sullah returned from the east, when Sullah returned from the east, when Sullah returned from the east, Pompy raised three legions from the Pompy raised three legions from the Pompy raised three legions from the ranks of his father's veterans. The ranks of his father's veterans. The ranks of his father's veterans. The young man had served with them since his young man had served with them since his young man had served with them since his first campaign at the age of 17. So his first campaign at the age of 17. So his first campaign at the age of 17. So his father's soldiers loved and trusted the father's soldiers loved and trusted the father's soldiers loved and trusted the boy who had grown up in the barracks as boy who had grown up in the barracks as boy who had grown up in the barracks as one of their one of their one of their own. After helping pacify northern own. After helping pacify northern own. After helping pacify northern Italy, Pompy was next given the task of Italy, Pompy was next given the task of Italy, Pompy was next given the task of ensuring the loyalty of Sicily, which ensuring the loyalty of Sicily, which ensuring the loyalty of Sicily, which was still teameing with Marians. As I've was still teameing with Marians. As I've was still teameing with Marians. As I've mentioned numerous times, Sicily was the mentioned numerous times, Sicily was the mentioned numerous times, Sicily was the bread basket of Rome, and controlling it

bread basket of Rome, and controlling it bread basket of Rome, and controlling it was essential to controlling the empire. was essential to controlling the empire. was essential to controlling the empire. As long as Rome remained fed, the people As long as Rome remained fed, the people As long as Rome remained fed, the people were generally content to allow were generally content to allow were generally content to allow themselves to be led by whoever wanted themselves to be led by whoever wanted themselves to be led by whoever wanted the job. But if those grain shipments the job. But if those grain shipments the job. But if those grain shipments ever stopped, anarchy, as they say, was ever stopped, anarchy, as they say, was ever stopped, anarchy, as they say, was only three missed meals away. If the only three missed meals away. If the only three missed meals away. If the Marians controlled Sicily, they could Marians controlled Sicily, they could Marians controlled Sicily, they could wreck havoc on Solo's attempt to wreck havoc on Solo's attempt to wreck havoc on Solo's attempt to consolidate power. consolidate power. consolidate power. Poppy threw himself into the task with a Poppy threw himself into the task with a Poppy threw himself into the task with a ruthlessness that reminded some of his ruthlessness that reminded some of his ruthlessness that reminded some of his father. He tracked down Papirius Carbo, father. He tracked down Papirius Carbo, father. He tracked down Papirius Carbo, the console who had fled from Aturi at the console who had fled from Aturi at the console who had fled from Aturi at the end of the Civil War and had him the end of the Civil War and had him the end of the Civil War and had him executed. When the people of Sicily executed. When the people of Sicily executed. When the people of Sicily complained that some of Pompy's methods complained that some of Pompy's methods complained that some of Pompy's methods were perhaps illegal, he dismissed them were perhaps illegal, he dismissed them were perhaps illegal, he dismissed them with a remark that revealed not only his with a remark that revealed not only his with a remark that revealed not only his personal philosophy, but the growing personal philosophy, but the growing personal philosophy, but the growing sentiment of ambitious military men sentiment of ambitious military men sentiment of ambitious military men everywhere. Won't you stop citing laws everywhere. Won't you stop citing laws everywhere. Won't you stop citing laws to us who have swords by our to us who have swords by our to us who have swords by our sides? And remember, a generation later, sides? And remember, a generation later, sides? And remember, a generation later, this was the man who defended the this was the man who defended the this was the man who defended the republic against Caesar. Clearly, the republic against Caesar. Clearly, the republic against Caesar. Clearly, the rule of law was not long for this rule of law was not long for this rule of law was not long for this particular particular particular world. Having subdued Sicily, Pompy world. Having subdued Sicily, Pompy world. Having subdued Sicily, Pompy sailed next for Africa, where he sailed next for Africa, where he sailed next for Africa, where he defeated the scattered remnants of defeated the scattered remnants of defeated the scattered remnants of Solo's enemies. For this last act, Pompy Solo's enemies. For this last act, Pompy Solo's enemies. For this last act, Pompy decided that he deserved a triumph.

decided that he deserved a triumph. decided that he deserved a triumph. Where he got the idea that he deserved Where he got the idea that he deserved Where he got the idea that he deserved one is a mystery for the ages. Not only one is a mystery for the ages. Not only one is a mystery for the ages. Not only was he not old enough, he had not yet was he not old enough, he had not yet was he not old enough, he had not yet reached the minimum office required reached the minimum office required reached the minimum office required prader to be considered for this prader to be considered for this prader to be considered for this greatest military honor and in fact had greatest military honor and in fact had greatest military honor and in fact had not even served in any public office at not even served in any public office at not even served in any public office at all. Finally, it had been a all. Finally, it had been a all. Finally, it had been a long-standing tradition that a triumph long-standing tradition that a triumph long-standing tradition that a triumph could not be approved if the battle or could not be approved if the battle or could not be approved if the battle or battles in question were against fellow battles in question were against fellow battles in question were against fellow Romans, which is of course what Pompy's Romans, which is of course what Pompy's Romans, which is of course what Pompy's African campaign was all about. African campaign was all about. African campaign was all about. It is from this impetuousness that Solah It is from this impetuousness that Solah It is from this impetuousness that Solah hung the sarcastic title of Magnus on hung the sarcastic title of Magnus on hung the sarcastic title of Magnus on Pompy. Ah yes, Pompy the Great wants a Pompy. Ah yes, Pompy the Great wants a Pompy. Ah yes, Pompy the Great wants a triumph. Let's all bow before Pompy the triumph. Let's all bow before Pompy the triumph. Let's all bow before Pompy the Great. But Pompy was undeterred. He Great. But Pompy was undeterred. He Great. But Pompy was undeterred. He refused to disband his army until his refused to disband his army until his refused to disband his army until his request was granted. Sullah, partly to request was granted. Sullah, partly to request was granted. Sullah, partly to appease his wife and stepdaughter, who appease his wife and stepdaughter, who appease his wife and stepdaughter, who had married Pompy the year before, and had married Pompy the year before, and had married Pompy the year before, and partly out of a genuine fear of what partly out of a genuine fear of what partly out of a genuine fear of what Pompy may be capable of, approved the Pompy may be capable of, approved the Pompy may be capable of, approved the triumph. But Pompy would have to wait.

triumph. But Pompy would have to wait. triumph. But Pompy would have to wait. First, Sullah held his own triumph, First, Sullah held his own triumph, First, Sullah held his own triumph, marching through the city to great marching through the city to great marching through the city to great fanfare and with much splendor. Next, fanfare and with much splendor. Next, fanfare and with much splendor. Next, Matelis Pious was granted his triumph, Matelis Pious was granted his triumph, Matelis Pious was granted his triumph, and the senior general marched through and the senior general marched through and the senior general marched through in similar splendor, but with slightly in similar splendor, but with slightly in similar splendor, but with slightly less less less fanfare. By the time Pompy's triumph fanfare. By the time Pompy's triumph fanfare. By the time Pompy's triumph rolled around, the city showed little rolled around, the city showed little rolled around, the city showed little enthusiasm for the event. What? Another enthusiasm for the event. What? Another enthusiasm for the event. What? Another triumph? Boring. triumph? Boring. triumph? Boring. Saha hoped he had put young Pompy in his Saha hoped he had put young Pompy in his Saha hoped he had put young Pompy in his place. But Sa died before he realized place. But Sa died before he realized place. But Sa died before he realized that nothing would ever put Pompy in his that nothing would ever put Pompy in his that nothing would ever put Pompy in his place. It was not long after Sa's death place. It was not long after Sa's death place. It was not long after Sa's death that the first in a long line of wouldbe that the first in a long line of wouldbe that the first in a long line of wouldbe desperates arose in his wake. A consil desperates arose in his wake. A consil desperates arose in his wake. A consil named Lepedus decided after his term was named Lepedus decided after his term was named Lepedus decided after his term was complete that he was not ready to give complete that he was not ready to give complete that he was not ready to give up the reigns of power and gathered an up the reigns of power and gathered an up the reigns of power and gathered an army in northern Italy to support his army in northern Italy to support his army in northern Italy to support his bid for a second term. Lepedus himself bid for a second term. Lepedus himself bid for a second term. Lepedus himself arrived in Rome with a great train of arrived in Rome with a great train of arrived in Rome with a great train of supporters, claiming that he controlled supporters, claiming that he controlled supporters, claiming that he controlled the land between the Po River and the the land between the Po River and the the land between the Po River and the Alps, and that his second console ship Alps, and that his second console ship Alps, and that his second console ship had better be approved, or else. The had better be approved, or else. The had better be approved, or else. The Senate had already sent Matelis Pious to Senate had already sent Matelis Pious to Senate had already sent Matelis Pious to Spain, where the last great Marian Spain, where the last great Marian Spain, where the last great Marian general, Quintistorius, continued to general, Quintistorius, continued to general, Quintistorius, continued to hold out. So, they sent young Pompy hold out. So, they sent young Pompy hold out. So, they sent young Pompy north to quell the brewing insurrection.

north to quell the brewing insurrection. north to quell the brewing insurrection. It did not take long to scatter Lepedus' It did not take long to scatter Lepedus' It did not take long to scatter Lepedus' supposed army and send word to the city supposed army and send word to the city supposed army and send word to the city that it had nothing to fear. Lepedus, that it had nothing to fear. Lepedus, that it had nothing to fear. Lepedus, who fancied himself the next Sullah, was who fancied himself the next Sullah, was who fancied himself the next Sullah, was forced to flee from the city, never to forced to flee from the city, never to forced to flee from the city, never to return. After ending this threat from return. After ending this threat from return. After ending this threat from Lepodus, Pompy issued a demand to the Lepodus, Pompy issued a demand to the Lepodus, Pompy issued a demand to the Senate that was even more insane than Senate that was even more insane than Senate that was even more insane than his request for a triumph. He wrote that his request for a triumph. He wrote that his request for a triumph. He wrote that he wanted to be sent to Spain as he wanted to be sent to Spain as he wanted to be sent to Spain as proconsul with full proconsul with full proconsul with full imperium. Again, Pompy had never served imperium. Again, Pompy had never served imperium. Again, Pompy had never served in office a day in his life, and was yet in office a day in his life, and was yet in office a day in his life, and was yet 15 years away from being eligible for a 15 years away from being eligible for a 15 years away from being eligible for a console ship, let alone a proconul ship, console ship, let alone a proconul ship, console ship, let alone a proconul ship, which was reserved for men who had which was reserved for men who had which was reserved for men who had already, you know, served as console. already, you know, served as console. already, you know, served as console. Pompy knew it was brash, but he also Pompy knew it was brash, but he also Pompy knew it was brash, but he also knew as well as the Senate did the knew as well as the Senate did the knew as well as the Senate did the situation on the ground in Spain. situation on the ground in Spain. situation on the ground in Spain. Matelis Pas, as great a general as he Matelis Pas, as great a general as he Matelis Pas, as great a general as he was, had been thus far unable to gain was, had been thus far unable to gain was, had been thus far unable to gain ground on the rogue Quintis Storius. It ground on the rogue Quintis Storius. It ground on the rogue Quintis Storius. It was clear that Pas needed help and that was clear that Pas needed help and that was clear that Pas needed help and that Pompy was heads and shoulders better Pompy was heads and shoulders better Pompy was heads and shoulders better than anyone else Rome could possibly than anyone else Rome could possibly than anyone else Rome could possibly send as a send as a send as a reinforcement. With great reluctance, reinforcement. With great reluctance, reinforcement. With great reluctance, they approved Pompy's request and made they approved Pompy's request and made they approved Pompy's request and made him proconsul of Spain in 76 BC at the him proconsul of Spain in 76 BC at the him proconsul of Spain in 76 BC at the tender age of 30. Craas was of course tender age of 30. Craas was of course tender age of 30. Craas was of course appalled. Pompy remained in Spain for appalled. Pompy remained in Spain for appalled. Pompy remained in Spain for the next 5 years engaged in a parallel the next 5 years engaged in a parallel the next 5 years engaged in a parallel rather than combined war effort rather than combined war effort rather than combined war effort alongside Matelis. Neither general had alongside Matelis. Neither general had alongside Matelis. Neither general had any wish to share the glory should one any wish to share the glory should one any wish to share the glory should one of them actually succeed in defeating of them actually succeed in defeating of them actually succeed in defeating the rebellious Storius. Though neither

the rebellious Storius. Though neither the rebellious Storius. Though neither had much to worry about as the Marian had much to worry about as the Marian had much to worry about as the Marian general ran circles around them general ran circles around them general ran circles around them both. Pompy began to tire of the cat and both. Pompy began to tire of the cat and both. Pompy began to tire of the cat and mouse game in Spain and instead began to mouse game in Spain and instead began to mouse game in Spain and instead began to covet a command in the east where covet a command in the east where covet a command in the east where Mithrates was once again making trouble Mithrates was once again making trouble Mithrates was once again making trouble for Rome. But extracting himself from for Rome. But extracting himself from for Rome. But extracting himself from Spain would not be so easy after the Spain would not be so easy after the Spain would not be so easy after the fuss he had made to get there in the fuss he had made to get there in the fuss he had made to get there in the first place. Besides, he had rivals back first place. Besides, he had rivals back first place. Besides, he had rivals back home that desired the eastern command home that desired the eastern command home that desired the eastern command for themselves and were doing everything for themselves and were doing everything for themselves and were doing everything in their power to make sure Pompy in their power to make sure Pompy in their power to make sure Pompy remained in Iberia, chasing his tail. remained in Iberia, chasing his tail. remained in Iberia, chasing his tail. But fortune smiled on Pompy once again, But fortune smiled on Pompy once again, But fortune smiled on Pompy once again, and in 71 BC, Storius was assassinated and in 71 BC, Storius was assassinated and in 71 BC, Storius was assassinated by an ambitious lieutenant who then took by an ambitious lieutenant who then took by an ambitious lieutenant who then took command of the rogue army for himself. command of the rogue army for himself. command of the rogue army for himself. But this lieutenant was not half the But this lieutenant was not half the But this lieutenant was not half the commander Sartorius had been, and in his commander Sartorius had been, and in his commander Sartorius had been, and in his first encounter with Pompy, was defeated first encounter with Pompy, was defeated first encounter with Pompy, was defeated easily. Just like that, Pompy had easily. Just like that, Pompy had easily. Just like that, Pompy had liberated liberated liberated Spain. After lucking into this victory, Spain. After lucking into this victory, Spain. After lucking into this victory, Pompy took his army back to Italy just Pompy took his army back to Italy just Pompy took his army back to Italy just in time to luck into some more glory, in time to luck into some more glory, in time to luck into some more glory, scooping up for himself a good deal of scooping up for himself a good deal of scooping up for himself a good deal of undeserved credit for ending the slave undeserved credit for ending the slave undeserved credit for ending the slave revolt that had erupted in his absence.

revolt that had erupted in his absence. revolt that had erupted in his absence. And of course, the credit he scooped up And of course, the credit he scooped up And of course, the credit he scooped up came at the expense of Crass, who had came at the expense of Crass, who had came at the expense of Crass, who had done the yman's work in defeating the done the yman's work in defeating the done the yman's work in defeating the slave army led by a certain Thrian slave army led by a certain Thrian slave army led by a certain Thrian gladiator. Next week, we'll cover this famous slave Next week, we'll cover this famous slave revolt led, of course, by Spartacus, who revolt led, of course, by Spartacus, who revolt led, of course, by Spartacus, who at one point stood at the head of at one point stood at the head of at one point stood at the head of 120,000 men and won multiple victories 120,000 men and won multiple victories 120,000 men and won multiple victories against the pride of the Roman legions. against the pride of the Roman legions. against the pride of the Roman legions. In the aftermath of the revolt, Pompy In the aftermath of the revolt, Pompy In the aftermath of the revolt, Pompy and Crass would forge an uneasy alliance and Crass would forge an uneasy alliance and Crass would forge an uneasy alliance while some 5,000 captured slaves were while some 5,000 captured slaves were while some 5,000 captured slaves were crucified up and down the Aion way. A crucified up and down the Aion way. A crucified up and down the Aion way. A lesson to those who would follow in lesson to those who would follow in lesson to those who would follow in Spartacus' footsteps. Spartacus' footsteps. Spartacus' footsteps. Finally, I would like to add that I've Finally, I would like to add that I've Finally, I would like to add that I've made a few changes behind the scenes made a few changes behind the scenes made a few changes behind the scenes here at the History of Realm. I've here at the History of Realm. I've here at the History of Realm. I've abandoned Blogger, which turned out to abandoned Blogger, which turned out to abandoned Blogger, which turned out to be the cause behind all the early be the cause behind all the early be the cause behind all the early episodes not showing up on iTunes, to a episodes not showing up on iTunes, to a episodes not showing up on iTunes, to a new blog at the history of new blog at the history of new blog at the history of realm.typad.com. Don't even get me realm.typad.com. Don't even get me realm.typad.com. Don't even get me started on what's wrong with started on what's wrong with started on what's wrong with WordPress. Also, at the proddding of WordPress. Also, at the proddding of WordPress. Also, at the proddding of some generous listeners, I've added a some generous listeners, I've added a some generous listeners, I've added a PayPal donation button to the new site.

PayPal donation button to the new site. PayPal donation button to the new site. I never expected to gain anything I never expected to gain anything I never expected to gain anything financially from the history of Rome, financially from the history of Rome, financially from the history of Rome, but a few of you out there have but a few of you out there have but a few of you out there have expressed an interest in sending a few expressed an interest in sending a few expressed an interest in sending a few appreciative dollars my way for the appreciative dollars my way for the appreciative dollars my way for the effort. So, if you find yourself so effort. So, if you find yourself so effort. So, if you find yourself so inclined, there it is. Any amount you inclined, there it is. Any amount you inclined, there it is. Any amount you choose, Visa and Mastercard accepted, choose, Visa and Mastercard accepted, choose, Visa and Mastercard accepted, minus whatever the leg breakers at minus whatever the leg breakers at minus whatever the leg breakers at PayPal take as their cut. Thanks to all PayPal take as their cut. Thanks to all PayPal take as their cut. Thanks to all of you out there who have stuck with the of you out there who have stuck with the of you out there who have stuck with the show and see you next week for show and see you next week for show and see you next week for [Music] Spartacus. Hello and welcome to the Spartacus. Hello and welcome to the history of Rome, episode 36. I am history of Rome, episode 36. I am history of Rome, episode 36. I am Spartacus. Spartacus. Spartacus. [Music] [Music] [Music] Last week we traced the early career Last week we traced the early career Last week we traced the early career paths of Crraus and Pompy, leaving them paths of Crraus and Pompy, leaving them paths of Crraus and Pompy, leaving them both on the edge of political both on the edge of political both on the edge of political prominence. This week we will cover the prominence. This week we will cover the prominence. This week we will cover the event that broke them into the big time. event that broke them into the big time. event that broke them into the big time. Prior to the third Survile War, Crus was Prior to the third Survile War, Crus was Prior to the third Survile War, Crus was just another fat cat and Pompy was just just another fat cat and Pompy was just just another fat cat and Pompy was just another ambitious young man on the make.

another ambitious young man on the make. another ambitious young man on the make. But after the slave revolt, both turned But after the slave revolt, both turned But after the slave revolt, both turned their well-deserved and not so their well-deserved and not so their well-deserved and not so well-deserved acclaim into a shared well-deserved acclaim into a shared well-deserved acclaim into a shared console ship. a claim and the fact that console ship. a claim and the fact that console ship. a claim and the fact that both refused to stand down their armies both refused to stand down their armies both refused to stand down their armies until the Senate agreed to make sure the until the Senate agreed to make sure the until the Senate agreed to make sure the elections produced the result that was elections produced the result that was elections produced the result that was in everyone's best in everyone's best in everyone's best interest. In 73 BC, Pompy was in Spain interest. In 73 BC, Pompy was in Spain interest. In 73 BC, Pompy was in Spain trying to pin down the rebellious Marian trying to pin down the rebellious Marian trying to pin down the rebellious Marian general Quintistorius and Craas was in general Quintistorius and Craas was in general Quintistorius and Craas was in Rome doing whatever it was that Craas Rome doing whatever it was that Craas Rome doing whatever it was that Craas did, probably dickering with a drowning did, probably dickering with a drowning did, probably dickering with a drowning man over the price of tossing him a man over the price of tossing him a man over the price of tossing him a lifeline. Spartacus, though, was at lifeline. Spartacus, though, was at lifeline. Spartacus, though, was at Gladiator School in Capoa. He was Gladiator School in Capoa. He was Gladiator School in Capoa. He was supposed to be learning how to put on a supposed to be learning how to put on a supposed to be learning how to put on a good show for his Roman masters, but good show for his Roman masters, but good show for his Roman masters, but mostly he was plotting his mostly he was plotting his mostly he was plotting his escape. Kirk Douglas was born in New escape. Kirk Douglas was born in New escape. Kirk Douglas was born in New York in 1916 to illiterate Russian York in 1916 to illiterate Russian York in 1916 to illiterate Russian immigrants. His real name was Isard immigrants. His real name was Isard immigrants. His real name was Isard Dellovich, but he spent his early years Dellovich, but he spent his early years Dellovich, but he spent his early years answering to the name of Izzy Demsky. He answering to the name of Izzy Demsky. He answering to the name of Izzy Demsky. He began acting in high school and knew began acting in high school and knew began acting in high school and knew from the moment he first stepped out on from the moment he first stepped out on from the moment he first stepped out on stage that he wanted to be an actor. Oh, stage that he wanted to be an actor. Oh, stage that he wanted to be an actor. Oh, wait a second. I think I may have mixed wait a second. I think I may have mixed wait a second. I think I may have mixed things up a bit. Hang on. Okay, I got things up a bit. Hang on. Okay, I got things up a bit. Hang on. Okay, I got it. No one is quite sure where Spartacus it. No one is quite sure where Spartacus it. No one is quite sure where Spartacus the gladiator came from. It seems pretty the gladiator came from. It seems pretty the gladiator came from. It seems pretty clear that he was born somewhere in clear that he was born somewhere in clear that he was born somewhere in Greece and he is most often referred to Greece and he is most often referred to Greece and he is most often referred to as a thrian, but thrian was also the as a thrian, but thrian was also the as a thrian, but thrian was also the gladatorial combat style he practiced.

gladatorial combat style he practiced. gladatorial combat style he practiced. So there may have been some confusion So there may have been some confusion So there may have been some confusion somewhere along the line about his true somewhere along the line about his true somewhere along the line about his true origins. It is also not known how he origins. It is also not known how he origins. It is also not known how he came to be in captivity, but he was came to be in captivity, but he was came to be in captivity, but he was widely believed to have served as an widely believed to have served as an widely believed to have served as an auxiliary soldier in the legions at some auxiliary soldier in the legions at some auxiliary soldier in the legions at some point and he may have been a captured point and he may have been a captured point and he may have been a captured deserter. However it happened, it did deserter. However it happened, it did deserter. However it happened, it did not take long for the traitors to not take long for the traitors to not take long for the traitors to recognize that he would make a promising recognize that he would make a promising recognize that he would make a promising gladiator. Peteroff purchased Spartacus gladiator. Peteroff purchased Spartacus gladiator. Peteroff purchased Spartacus and brought him to Capua to train for and brought him to Capua to train for and brought him to Capua to train for life in the arena at a gladiatorial life in the arena at a gladiatorial life in the arena at a gladiatorial school. In 73 BC, a plot was hatched at school. In 73 BC, a plot was hatched at school. In 73 BC, a plot was hatched at the school that eventually included some the school that eventually included some the school that eventually included some 200 gladiators and slaves to break out 200 gladiators and slaves to break out 200 gladiators and slaves to break out of captivity. However, with that many of captivity. However, with that many of captivity. However, with that many people involved, it was just a matter of people involved, it was just a matter of people involved, it was just a matter of time before someone talked. When the time before someone talked. When the time before someone talked. When the conspirators were confronted after the conspirators were confronted after the conspirators were confronted after the inevitable squealer squealled, they inevitable squealer squealled, they inevitable squealer squealled, they decided to just go for it and with decided to just go for it and with decided to just go for it and with whatever crude weapons they could grab, whatever crude weapons they could grab, whatever crude weapons they could grab, mostly kitchen utensils, about 70 fought mostly kitchen utensils, about 70 fought mostly kitchen utensils, about 70 fought their way out of the school. Initially, their way out of the school. Initially, their way out of the school. Initially, the escape mob had no leader, but a few the escape mob had no leader, but a few the escape mob had no leader, but a few in the group possessed the kind of in the group possessed the kind of in the group possessed the kind of natural authority men turned to in a natural authority men turned to in a natural authority men turned to in a crisis. One of these was, of course, crisis. One of these was, of course, crisis. One of these was, of course, Spartacus, but another of equal standing Spartacus, but another of equal standing Spartacus, but another of equal standing at this point was a Gaul named Crixus.

at this point was a Gaul named Crixus. at this point was a Gaul named Crixus. The escapees showed more confidence and The escapees showed more confidence and The escapees showed more confidence and daring than one might expect from men on daring than one might expect from men on daring than one might expect from men on the run. They proceeded to raid the the run. They proceeded to raid the the run. They proceeded to raid the countryside around Capoa, which as you countryside around Capoa, which as you countryside around Capoa, which as you may recall from earlier episodes, was may recall from earlier episodes, was may recall from earlier episodes, was some of the richest, most fertile land some of the richest, most fertile land some of the richest, most fertile land in in in Italy. The majority of the Roman elites Italy. The majority of the Roman elites Italy. The majority of the Roman elites had country estates in the region. And had country estates in the region. And had country estates in the region. And of course, where there are palatial of course, where there are palatial of course, where there are palatial country estates, there are slaves, none country estates, there are slaves, none country estates, there are slaves, none of whom were too excited about their of whom were too excited about their of whom were too excited about their status. So when the escaped gladiator status. So when the escaped gladiator status. So when the escaped gladiator showed up at the door demanding plunder, showed up at the door demanding plunder, showed up at the door demanding plunder, master slaves did not defend master's master slaves did not defend master's master slaves did not defend master's things. Master slaves joined up and things. Master slaves joined up and things. Master slaves joined up and helped carry off whatever they could. helped carry off whatever they could. helped carry off whatever they could. Pretty soon, the band had grown into the Pretty soon, the band had grown into the Pretty soon, the band had grown into the thousands. Displaying the kind of sound thousands. Displaying the kind of sound thousands. Displaying the kind of sound judgment and strategic thinking that judgment and strategic thinking that judgment and strategic thinking that would make them such a formidable force, would make them such a formidable force, would make them such a formidable force, the group headed towards Mount Vuvius, the group headed towards Mount Vuvius, the group headed towards Mount Vuvius, where they set up a stable camp on the where they set up a stable camp on the where they set up a stable camp on the densely wooded slopes. densely wooded slopes. densely wooded slopes. At first, the Senate looked upon the At first, the Senate looked upon the At first, the Senate looked upon the raiding as little more than common raiding as little more than common raiding as little more than common thievery and took no official notice. thievery and took no official notice. thievery and took no official notice. They did not realize that Spartacus and They did not realize that Spartacus and They did not realize that Spartacus and his compatriots were building an army.

his compatriots were building an army. his compatriots were building an army. They did not realize that the third They did not realize that the third They did not realize that the third Survile War had already begun. Now, I'm Survile War had already begun. Now, I'm Survile War had already begun. Now, I'm sure you're asking yourself, third sure you're asking yourself, third sure you're asking yourself, third Survile War. What about the first two? Survile War. What about the first two? Survile War. What about the first two? So, let's back up a bit. The first and So, let's back up a bit. The first and So, let's back up a bit. The first and second Survile Wars were both contained second Survile Wars were both contained second Survile Wars were both contained to Sicily. And I mentioned the former in to Sicily. And I mentioned the former in to Sicily. And I mentioned the former in passing during the episode on Tiberius passing during the episode on Tiberius passing during the episode on Tiberius Gracus when I was ticking off some of Gracus when I was ticking off some of Gracus when I was ticking off some of the reasons grain prices in Rome were the reasons grain prices in Rome were the reasons grain prices in Rome were skyrocketing at the time. That war skyrocketing at the time. That war skyrocketing at the time. That war lasted from 135 to 132 BC and was the lasted from 135 to 132 BC and was the lasted from 135 to 132 BC and was the result of the barbaric treatment shown result of the barbaric treatment shown result of the barbaric treatment shown to the island's slave population after to the island's slave population after to the island's slave population after Rome took full control of the island in Rome took full control of the island in Rome took full control of the island in the aftermath of the Punic Wars. The the aftermath of the Punic Wars. The the aftermath of the Punic Wars. The second Survile War broke out a second Survile War broke out a second Survile War broke out a generation later while Marius recruited generation later while Marius recruited generation later while Marius recruited for his showdown with the Kimbry in 104 for his showdown with the Kimbry in 104 for his showdown with the Kimbry in 104 BC. After some local provincial rulers BC. After some local provincial rulers BC. After some local provincial rulers across the empire complained that they across the empire complained that they across the empire complained that they were unable to supply their recruit were unable to supply their recruit were unable to supply their recruit quotas because all of their abbleist quotas because all of their abbleist quotas because all of their abbleist recruits read poor young men had been recruits read poor young men had been recruits read poor young men had been chained up and sold into slavery by chained up and sold into slavery by chained up and sold into slavery by overzealous Roman debt collectors. So overzealous Roman debt collectors. So overzealous Roman debt collectors. So Marius ordered the release of any slave Marius ordered the release of any slave Marius ordered the release of any slave from an allied nation. This was great as from an allied nation. This was great as from an allied nation. This was great as far as it went, but in Sicily, many far as it went, but in Sicily, many far as it went, but in Sicily, many slaves took this to mean that they were slaves took this to mean that they were slaves took this to mean that they were free and were quite displeased when they free and were quite displeased when they free and were quite displeased when they were ordered to return to their masters.

were ordered to return to their masters. were ordered to return to their masters. So, a force of about 25,000 formed a So, a force of about 25,000 formed a So, a force of about 25,000 formed a coherent army and broke out into open coherent army and broke out into open coherent army and broke out into open revolt. Both slave uprisings were revolt. Both slave uprisings were revolt. Both slave uprisings were eventually quelled, but only after great eventually quelled, but only after great eventually quelled, but only after great effort and expense. effort and expense. effort and expense. So the Roman Senate, despite having So the Roman Senate, despite having So the Roman Senate, despite having previously witnessed two slavers, did previously witnessed two slavers, did previously witnessed two slavers, did not yet recognize what was happening in not yet recognize what was happening in not yet recognize what was happening in Kana, was in fact another slaver. They Kana, was in fact another slaver. They Kana, was in fact another slaver. They dispatched an irregular militia of about dispatched an irregular militia of about dispatched an irregular militia of about 3,000 led by one of that year's praers, 3,000 led by one of that year's praers, 3,000 led by one of that year's praers, gas Claudius Globber, down to round up gas Claudius Globber, down to round up gas Claudius Globber, down to round up the fugitives and put a halt to the the fugitives and put a halt to the the fugitives and put a halt to the looting. Globber located the slave looting. Globber located the slave looting. Globber located the slave hideout on the slopes of Mount Vuvius hideout on the slopes of Mount Vuvius hideout on the slopes of Mount Vuvius and settled into a camp at the base of and settled into a camp at the base of and settled into a camp at the base of the mountain. Everyone knew there was the mountain. Everyone knew there was the mountain. Everyone knew there was only one safe way to come down Vuvius only one safe way to come down Vuvius only one safe way to come down Vuvius because the back end of the mountain was because the back end of the mountain was because the back end of the mountain was all cliffs. The slaves would eventually all cliffs. The slaves would eventually all cliffs. The slaves would eventually get hungry, come down to forage, and get hungry, come down to forage, and get hungry, come down to forage, and when they did, the militia would envelop when they did, the militia would envelop when they did, the militia would envelop them and Globber would be welcomed home them and Globber would be welcomed home them and Globber would be welcomed home a hero. a hero. a hero. QED. Except that the slave army had no QED. Except that the slave army had no QED. Except that the slave army had no time for conventional wisdom or standard time for conventional wisdom or standard time for conventional wisdom or standard military practice. During the night, military practice. During the night, military practice. During the night, they used vines from the trees and they used vines from the trees and they used vines from the trees and handmade ladders to repel down the sheer handmade ladders to repel down the sheer handmade ladders to repel down the sheer cliffs. While Globber slept, dreams of a cliffs. While Globber slept, dreams of a cliffs. While Globber slept, dreams of a console ship dancing in his head, the console ship dancing in his head, the console ship dancing in his head, the slaves approached from behind, surprised slaves approached from behind, surprised slaves approached from behind, surprised the militia, and killed them the militia, and killed them the militia, and killed them all. Upon receiving the news, the Roman all. Upon receiving the news, the Roman all. Upon receiving the news, the Roman Senate was nonplusted. The slaves were Senate was nonplusted. The slaves were Senate was nonplusted. The slaves were making a big old mess of everyone's making a big old mess of everyone's making a big old mess of everyone's favorite vacation spot, and it was favorite vacation spot, and it was favorite vacation spot, and it was frankly getting annoying. They weren't frankly getting annoying. They weren't frankly getting annoying. They weren't quite ready to commit the full force of quite ready to commit the full force of quite ready to commit the full force of the legions, so another militia of about the legions, so another militia of about the legions, so another militia of about 4,000 was sent down. But for some

4,000 was sent down. But for some 4,000 was sent down. But for some reason, the commander decided to split reason, the commander decided to split reason, the commander decided to split this force into two before engaging the this force into two before engaging the this force into two before engaging the outlawed slaves. Both halves were too outlawed slaves. Both halves were too outlawed slaves. Both halves were too weak on their own, and the slaves weak on their own, and the slaves weak on their own, and the slaves defeated the new militia with ease. So, defeated the new militia with ease. So, defeated the new militia with ease. So, not only had the slaves now won three not only had the slaves now won three not only had the slaves now won three successive battles against the Romans, successive battles against the Romans, successive battles against the Romans, but they also had the armor, weapons, but they also had the armor, weapons, but they also had the armor, weapons, and equipment that had been sent down and equipment that had been sent down and equipment that had been sent down along with the 7,000 militia men. along with the 7,000 militia men. along with the 7,000 militia men. Suddenly they were a true force to be Suddenly they were a true force to be Suddenly they were a true force to be reckoned with. And slaves from across reckoned with. And slaves from across reckoned with. And slaves from across the countryside, men, women, and the countryside, men, women, and the countryside, men, women, and children flocked to the growing, now children flocked to the growing, now children flocked to the growing, now formidable slave army. The 70 who had formidable slave army. The 70 who had formidable slave army. The 70 who had initially broken out of the gladiator initially broken out of the gladiator initially broken out of the gladiator school found themselves backed up by school found themselves backed up by school found themselves backed up by 70,000 of their closest 70,000 of their closest 70,000 of their closest friends. As the winter of 73 BC friends. As the winter of 73 BC friends. As the winter of 73 BC approached, Rome had a very big problem approached, Rome had a very big problem approached, Rome had a very big problem on its hands, and it wasn't going on its hands, and it wasn't going on its hands, and it wasn't going anywhere anytime soon. anywhere anytime soon. anywhere anytime soon. The slaves spent the winter continuing The slaves spent the winter continuing The slaves spent the winter continuing to raid the countryside with impunity to raid the countryside with impunity to raid the countryside with impunity and most importantly train. Their and most importantly train. Their and most importantly train. Their survival now depended on their ability survival now depended on their ability survival now depended on their ability to stand against the Roman legions on to stand against the Roman legions on to stand against the Roman legions on the open the open the open battlefield. The core group of mostly battlefield. The core group of mostly battlefield. The core group of mostly GAIC gladiators would individually train GAIC gladiators would individually train GAIC gladiators would individually train groups of new recruits to block, parry, groups of new recruits to block, parry, groups of new recruits to block, parry, thrust, march, and most importantly thrust, march, and most importantly thrust, march, and most importantly follow orders. Those newly trained follow orders. Those newly trained follow orders. Those newly trained individuals would then go off and train individuals would then go off and train individuals would then go off and train their own groups, who would in turn their own groups, who would in turn their own groups, who would in turn train yet more groups. Using this train yet more groups. Using this train yet more groups. Using this exponential system of training, by the exponential system of training, by the exponential system of training, by the time the campaign season of 72 finally time the campaign season of 72 finally time the campaign season of 72 finally came around, the slaves were ready. And came around, the slaves were ready. And came around, the slaves were ready. And it was a good thing, too, because Rome

it was a good thing, too, because Rome it was a good thing, too, because Rome wasn't going to be sending militias this wasn't going to be sending militias this wasn't going to be sending militias this time. No, this time it would be full time. No, this time it would be full time. No, this time it would be full consular armies. consular armies. consular armies. By most accounts, Spartacus' main aim By most accounts, Spartacus' main aim By most accounts, Spartacus' main aim was to make his way north and get out of was to make his way north and get out of was to make his way north and get out of Italy. His fellow commander Cricsus, Italy. His fellow commander Cricsus, Italy. His fellow commander Cricsus, however, seemed much more enamored with however, seemed much more enamored with however, seemed much more enamored with a life spent pillaging the Roman a life spent pillaging the Roman a life spent pillaging the Roman countryside. So, while Spartacus led the countryside. So, while Spartacus led the countryside. So, while Spartacus led the bulk of the newly minted army north, bulk of the newly minted army north, bulk of the newly minted army north, Kriskus peeled off with about 30,000. Kriskus peeled off with about 30,000. Kriskus peeled off with about 30,000. The plan being for them to stay in The plan being for them to stay in The plan being for them to stay in southern Italy and suck up whatever southern Italy and suck up whatever southern Italy and suck up whatever wasn't nailed down. His reasoning, I wasn't nailed down. His reasoning, I wasn't nailed down. His reasoning, I suppose, was that Rome hadn't been able suppose, was that Rome hadn't been able suppose, was that Rome hadn't been able to stop them so far, and now they were to stop them so far, and now they were to stop them so far, and now they were stronger and better equipped. So, stronger and better equipped. So, stronger and better equipped. So, Kriscus was going to get his before he Kriscus was going to get his before he Kriscus was going to get his before he retired. But regular legions are not retired. But regular legions are not retired. But regular legions are not drafted militias, and untested praers drafted militias, and untested praers drafted militias, and untested praers are not seasoned consoles. And Rome had are not seasoned consoles. And Rome had are not seasoned consoles. And Rome had decided the slave revolt was the decided the slave revolt was the decided the slave revolt was the business at hand for 72 BC and sent both business at hand for 72 BC and sent both business at hand for 72 BC and sent both consils for the year, Lucius Gelius consils for the year, Lucius Gelius consils for the year, Lucius Gelius Publakoa and Nas Cornelius Lenus at the Publakoa and Nas Cornelius Lenus at the Publakoa and Nas Cornelius Lenus at the head of full consularor armies to put head of full consularor armies to put head of full consularor armies to put down what they now finally recognized to down what they now finally recognized to down what they now finally recognized to be a full-blown be a full-blown be a full-blown revolt. Crixs and his force did not last revolt. Crixs and his force did not last revolt. Crixs and his force did not last very long. Galas caught up with him and very long. Galas caught up with him and very long. Galas caught up with him and the far more disciplined Romans were the far more disciplined Romans were the far more disciplined Romans were able to carve their way through the able to carve their way through the able to carve their way through the mostly Germanic infantry with ease. At mostly Germanic infantry with ease. At mostly Germanic infantry with ease. At least twothirds of Kriscus' army was least twothirds of Kriscus' army was least twothirds of Kriscus' army was killed in the battle, including Kriscus killed in the battle, including Kriscus killed in the battle, including Kriscus himself. Spartacus, meanwhile, continued himself. Spartacus, meanwhile, continued himself. Spartacus, meanwhile, continued to march north towards the Alps. There to march north towards the Alps. There to march north towards the Alps. There are two divergent accounts of what are two divergent accounts of what are two divergent accounts of what happened next. According to the

happened next. According to the happened next. According to the historian Appion, writing in about 160 historian Appion, writing in about 160 historian Appion, writing in about 160 AD, Lentoas placed his army between AD, Lentoas placed his army between AD, Lentoas placed his army between Spartacus and the Alps, while Galas, Spartacus and the Alps, while Galas, Spartacus and the Alps, while Galas, fresh off his victory over Kriscus, fresh off his victory over Kriscus, fresh off his victory over Kriscus, followed Spartacus north. The consils followed Spartacus north. The consils followed Spartacus north. The consils hoped to trap the slaves between their hoped to trap the slaves between their hoped to trap the slaves between their two armies and crush them. But Spartacus two armies and crush them. But Spartacus two armies and crush them. But Spartacus acted quickly and decided to attack acted quickly and decided to attack acted quickly and decided to attack Lenullis before Galas was able to arrive Lenullis before Galas was able to arrive Lenullis before Galas was able to arrive and close the trap. The slave army and close the trap. The slave army and close the trap. The slave army defeated Lentus' outnumbered legion defeated Lentus' outnumbered legion defeated Lentus' outnumbered legion whereupon Spartacus wheeled around when whereupon Spartacus wheeled around when whereupon Spartacus wheeled around when Gelus arrived and beat his army too. Gelus arrived and beat his army too. Gelus arrived and beat his army too. Then just to top things off, the two Then just to top things off, the two Then just to top things off, the two defeated consularor armies regrouped and defeated consularor armies regrouped and defeated consularor armies regrouped and combined whereupon Spartacus defeated combined whereupon Spartacus defeated combined whereupon Spartacus defeated them again. I call this version them again. I call this version them again. I call this version Spartacus Totally Rules starring Spartacus Totally Rules starring Spartacus Totally Rules starring Spartacus. The Greek historian Plutarch Spartacus. The Greek historian Plutarch Spartacus. The Greek historian Plutarch on the other hand writing around 100 AD on the other hand writing around 100 AD on the other hand writing around 100 AD says simply that Spartacus faced Lenus says simply that Spartacus faced Lenus says simply that Spartacus faced Lenus and defeated him before meeting and and defeated him before meeting and and defeated him before meeting and beating another small Roman legion at beating another small Roman legion at beating another small Roman legion at the foot of the Alps. No mention is made the foot of the Alps. No mention is made the foot of the Alps. No mention is made of facing Galas or the subsequent third of facing Galas or the subsequent third of facing Galas or the subsequent third battle. My suspicion is that the latter battle. My suspicion is that the latter battle. My suspicion is that the latter version, which I call probably closer to version, which I call probably closer to version, which I call probably closer to the truth, was probably closer to the the truth, was probably closer to the the truth, was probably closer to the truth.

truth. truth. But whatever exactly happened in 72, the But whatever exactly happened in 72, the But whatever exactly happened in 72, the sources pretty much agree on what sources pretty much agree on what sources pretty much agree on what happened next. Crass entered the picture happened next. Crass entered the picture happened next. Crass entered the picture and brought the third Survi war to a and brought the third Survi war to a and brought the third Survi war to a brutal brutal brutal conclusion. The big gaping hole in the conclusion. The big gaping hole in the conclusion. The big gaping hole in the story though is having most likely story though is having most likely story though is having most likely defeated Lenullis and with nothing defeated Lenullis and with nothing defeated Lenullis and with nothing standing between him and freedom, why standing between him and freedom, why standing between him and freedom, why did Spartacus decide to turn around and did Spartacus decide to turn around and did Spartacus decide to turn around and head back into Italy? And this gets into head back into Italy? And this gets into head back into Italy? And this gets into the real lack of an answer for what the the real lack of an answer for what the the real lack of an answer for what the motivations behind the revolt really motivations behind the revolt really motivations behind the revolt really were. Chriscus' motive seemed clear. He were. Chriscus' motive seemed clear. He were. Chriscus' motive seemed clear. He wanted to kill Romans and take their wanted to kill Romans and take their wanted to kill Romans and take their stuff. Spartacus obviously had some stuff. Spartacus obviously had some stuff. Spartacus obviously had some divergent motivation or he would have divergent motivation or he would have divergent motivation or he would have kept the army whole, but if he did, why kept the army whole, but if he did, why kept the army whole, but if he did, why fight all the way to the Alps just to fight all the way to the Alps just to fight all the way to the Alps just to turn around? We will probably never know turn around? We will probably never know turn around? We will probably never know why Spartacus turned around, but in any why Spartacus turned around, but in any why Spartacus turned around, but in any event, he did and the army marched back event, he did and the army marched back event, he did and the army marched back south. south. south. With the failure of the consoles the With the failure of the consoles the With the failure of the consoles the previous year to get the job done, previous year to get the job done, previous year to get the job done, though Galas pretty clearly seemed to though Galas pretty clearly seemed to though Galas pretty clearly seemed to have done his part, Crass saw his chance have done his part, Crass saw his chance have done his part, Crass saw his chance to win some of that glory that had so to win some of that glory that had so to win some of that glory that had so eluded him by putting down the revolt eluded him by putting down the revolt eluded him by putting down the revolt himself. He convinced the Senate to give himself. He convinced the Senate to give himself. He convinced the Senate to give him the title of Prader and command of him the title of Prader and command of him the title of Prader and command of 50,000 troops. More than enough, he 50,000 troops. More than enough, he 50,000 troops. More than enough, he said, to defeat the rabble once and for said, to defeat the rabble once and for said, to defeat the rabble once and for all.

all. all. Craas by all accounts was a strict Craas by all accounts was a strict Craas by all accounts was a strict disciplinarian even going so far as to disciplinarian even going so far as to disciplinarian even going so far as to bring back the old tradition of bring back the old tradition of bring back the old tradition of decimation by which every 10th soldier decimation by which every 10th soldier decimation by which every 10th soldier of a retreating legion is of a retreating legion is of a retreating legion is executed. He definitely came from the executed. He definitely came from the executed. He definitely came from the old school of thought that the soldiers old school of thought that the soldiers old school of thought that the soldiers ought to fear their officers more than ought to fear their officers more than ought to fear their officers more than the enemy. It didn't endear him to the enemy. It didn't endear him to the enemy. It didn't endear him to anyone and Craas never enjoyed the kind anyone and Craas never enjoyed the kind anyone and Craas never enjoyed the kind of love and agilation that Caesar or of love and agilation that Caesar or of love and agilation that Caesar or Pompy basked in. But at least this time Pompy basked in. But at least this time Pompy basked in. But at least this time it got the job done. it got the job done. it got the job done. Spartacus led his slave army south all Spartacus led his slave army south all Spartacus led his slave army south all the way to the very toe of Italy and the way to the very toe of Italy and the way to the very toe of Italy and began to negotiate for passage across began to negotiate for passage across began to negotiate for passage across the straits of Msina to the straits of Msina to the straits of Msina to Sicily. Obviously, Sicily had given Sicily. Obviously, Sicily had given Sicily. Obviously, Sicily had given birth to the first two surviile wars. birth to the first two surviile wars. birth to the first two surviile wars. So, it seems that Spartacus may have So, it seems that Spartacus may have So, it seems that Spartacus may have intended to lead a general revolt on the intended to lead a general revolt on the intended to lead a general revolt on the island, acquire new recruits, and let's island, acquire new recruits, and let's island, acquire new recruits, and let's say overthrow the Roman Empire. His say overthrow the Roman Empire. His say overthrow the Roman Empire. His wider strategic plans are a complete wider strategic plans are a complete wider strategic plans are a complete mystery. All we know is what he did, not mystery. All we know is what he did, not mystery. All we know is what he did, not why he did it. why he did it. why he did it. Being the leader of an outlaw army, he Being the leader of an outlaw army, he Being the leader of an outlaw army, he was forced to deal with Sicilian pirates was forced to deal with Sicilian pirates was forced to deal with Sicilian pirates as his only option for fairing the army as his only option for fairing the army as his only option for fairing the army off the mainland. But having paid the off the mainland. But having paid the off the mainland. But having paid the pirates, the pirates did what pirates pirates, the pirates did what pirates pirates, the pirates did what pirates normally do. They took the money and normally do. They took the money and normally do. They took the money and ran. This left Spartacus lighter in the ran. This left Spartacus lighter in the ran. This left Spartacus lighter in the pocketbook, but more importantly up the pocketbook, but more importantly up the pocketbook, but more importantly up the proverbial creek without a paddle. The proverbial creek without a paddle. The proverbial creek without a paddle. The toe of Italy is not particularly wide.

toe of Italy is not particularly wide. toe of Italy is not particularly wide. So, as Spartacus was trying to flee So, as Spartacus was trying to flee So, as Spartacus was trying to flee Italy by sea, Crass marched his army Italy by sea, Crass marched his army Italy by sea, Crass marched his army down to prevent the slaves from down to prevent the slaves from down to prevent the slaves from backtracking by land. When the pirates backtracking by land. When the pirates backtracking by land. When the pirates betrayed him, Spartacus was trapped. betrayed him, Spartacus was trapped. betrayed him, Spartacus was trapped. There is some indication that Spartacus There is some indication that Spartacus There is some indication that Spartacus attempted to bargain with Craas at this attempted to bargain with Craas at this attempted to bargain with Craas at this point, but Crass would have none of it. point, but Crass would have none of it. point, but Crass would have none of it. He wasn't simply interested in bringing He wasn't simply interested in bringing He wasn't simply interested in bringing the revolt to an end. He was interested the revolt to an end. He was interested the revolt to an end. He was interested in defeating the slave army militarily. in defeating the slave army militarily. in defeating the slave army militarily. Craas had more important things to worry Craas had more important things to worry Craas had more important things to worry about than the ultimate safety of the about than the ultimate safety of the about than the ultimate safety of the Roman people. He had his political Roman people. He had his political Roman people. He had his political career to look out for and he was career to look out for and he was career to look out for and he was banking on a great military victory to banking on a great military victory to banking on a great military victory to catapult him into the upper echelon of catapult him into the upper echelon of catapult him into the upper echelon of the nobility. Negotiate the consil ship the nobility. Negotiate the consil ship the nobility. Negotiate the consil ship was just a day's battle was just a day's battle was just a day's battle away. Spartacus and his army were in away. Spartacus and his army were in away. Spartacus and his army were in desperate straits, hemmed in by Craus' desperate straits, hemmed in by Craus' desperate straits, hemmed in by Craus' legions. Word also began to filter legions. Word also began to filter legions. Word also began to filter through the lines that Roman through the lines that Roman through the lines that Roman reinforcements were arriving from the reinforcements were arriving from the reinforcements were arriving from the east and that Pompy had crossed back east and that Pompy had crossed back east and that Pompy had crossed back into Italy and was heading south to aid into Italy and was heading south to aid into Italy and was heading south to aid Craas. Spartacus decided that they had Craas. Spartacus decided that they had Craas. Spartacus decided that they had to break through Craas' line now or they to break through Craas' line now or they to break through Craas' line now or they would have no hope at all. He would have no hope at all. He would have no hope at all. He concentrated all his strength on one concentrated all his strength on one concentrated all his strength on one point and eventually his army was able point and eventually his army was able point and eventually his army was able to break through the line, running at to break through the line, running at to break through the line, running at full steam to escape the toe of Italy full steam to escape the toe of Italy full steam to escape the toe of Italy before the reinforcements could arrive.

before the reinforcements could arrive. before the reinforcements could arrive. But the escape effort, combined with the But the escape effort, combined with the But the escape effort, combined with the nearly two years of continuous struggle nearly two years of continuous struggle nearly two years of continuous struggle and hardship, had finally taken their and hardship, had finally taken their and hardship, had finally taken their toll on the unprofessional slave army. toll on the unprofessional slave army. toll on the unprofessional slave army. 15,000 men were separated from the main 15,000 men were separated from the main 15,000 men were separated from the main force led by Spartacus and were force led by Spartacus and were force led by Spartacus and were destroyed by Crass and his pursuing destroyed by Crass and his pursuing destroyed by Crass and his pursuing legions. Discipline broke down in the legions. Discipline broke down in the legions. Discipline broke down in the slave army as groups began to flee or slave army as groups began to flee or slave army as groups began to flee or fight depending on their own fight depending on their own fight depending on their own disposition. disposition. disposition. Realizing that he would not be able to Realizing that he would not be able to Realizing that he would not be able to keep his army together for much longer, keep his army together for much longer, keep his army together for much longer, Spartacus decided to make a last stand. Spartacus decided to make a last stand. Spartacus decided to make a last stand. His army turned and threw everything it His army turned and threw everything it His army turned and threw everything it had at Crraus, but it simply wasn't had at Crraus, but it simply wasn't had at Crraus, but it simply wasn't enough. The majority of the Slayer army enough. The majority of the Slayer army enough. The majority of the Slayer army along with Spartacus himself were killed along with Spartacus himself were killed along with Spartacus himself were killed in the final battle. Crasses had put in the final battle. Crasses had put in the final battle. Crasses had put down the revolt and stood as the down the revolt and stood as the down the revolt and stood as the conquering hero of the Third Survile conquering hero of the Third Survile conquering hero of the Third Survile War, and he wouldn't have to share his War, and he wouldn't have to share his War, and he wouldn't have to share his glory with glory with glory with anybody, except that about 5,000 slaves anybody, except that about 5,000 slaves anybody, except that about 5,000 slaves had managed to evade capture and had managed to evade capture and had managed to evade capture and continue running north. Pompy was on his continue running north. Pompy was on his continue running north. Pompy was on his way south with instructions to aid Crass way south with instructions to aid Crass way south with instructions to aid Crass against the great and terrible slave against the great and terrible slave against the great and terrible slave menace. Not making it in time for the menace. Not making it in time for the menace. Not making it in time for the main battle, he instead ran right into main battle, he instead ran right into main battle, he instead ran right into these 5,000 fleeing slaves. Exhausted, these 5,000 fleeing slaves. Exhausted, these 5,000 fleeing slaves. Exhausted, illequipped, and on their last legs, illequipped, and on their last legs, illequipped, and on their last legs, Pompy barely broke a sweat, defeating Pompy barely broke a sweat, defeating Pompy barely broke a sweat, defeating this last remnant of Spartacus' already this last remnant of Spartacus' already this last remnant of Spartacus' already defeated army. But master of PR that he defeated army. But master of PR that he defeated army. But master of PR that he was, Pompy sent a message to the Senate was, Pompy sent a message to the Senate was, Pompy sent a message to the Senate announcing that he, Pompy Magnus, had announcing that he, Pompy Magnus, had announcing that he, Pompy Magnus, had officially brought the uprising to an officially brought the uprising to an officially brought the uprising to an end. While the honors were being handed end. While the honors were being handed end. While the honors were being handed out after the legions returned to Rome,

out after the legions returned to Rome, out after the legions returned to Rome, Pompy stood side by side with Craas, Pompy stood side by side with Craas, Pompy stood side by side with Craas, accepting credit for things he very accepting credit for things he very accepting credit for things he very obviously did not deserve credit for. obviously did not deserve credit for. obviously did not deserve credit for. The victory over the slave army was The victory over the slave army was The victory over the slave army was supposed to establish Crraus as the supposed to establish Crraus as the supposed to establish Crraus as the preeminent leader of the republic, but preeminent leader of the republic, but preeminent leader of the republic, but instead he now shared that distinction instead he now shared that distinction instead he now shared that distinction with Pompy, much to the former chagrin with Pompy, much to the former chagrin with Pompy, much to the former chagrin and the latter's delight. But the enmity and the latter's delight. But the enmity and the latter's delight. But the enmity crass now bore Pompy was not strong crass now bore Pompy was not strong crass now bore Pompy was not strong enough to make him miss an obvious enough to make him miss an obvious enough to make him miss an obvious political opportunity. Both men stood at political opportunity. Both men stood at political opportunity. Both men stood at the head of large armies camped outside the head of large armies camped outside the head of large armies camped outside the city walls and neither was the city walls and neither was the city walls and neither was particularly disposed to dispand them particularly disposed to dispand them particularly disposed to dispand them until an understanding was reached. They until an understanding was reached. They until an understanding was reached. They each knew that the other would be their each knew that the other would be their each knew that the other would be their biggest rival for power, but also that biggest rival for power, but also that biggest rival for power, but also that there were dozens of other nobles who there were dozens of other nobles who there were dozens of other nobles who fancied themselves the next solo. So fancied themselves the next solo. So fancied themselves the next solo. So first you have to eliminate the first you have to eliminate the first you have to eliminate the pretenders to the throne before you can pretenders to the throne before you can pretenders to the throne before you can deal with the real claimants. So Craas, deal with the real claimants. So Craas, deal with the real claimants. So Craas, Pompy, and the Senate agreed that it was Pompy, and the Senate agreed that it was Pompy, and the Senate agreed that it was in everyone's best interest for Craas in everyone's best interest for Craas in everyone's best interest for Craas and Pompy to serve as co-consuls for the and Pompy to serve as co-consuls for the and Pompy to serve as co-consuls for the next next next year. From there, it would be easy for year. From there, it would be easy for year. From there, it would be easy for them to eliminate the weaker them to eliminate the weaker them to eliminate the weaker competition, but for inevitably turning competition, but for inevitably turning competition, but for inevitably turning on each other to decide the final fate on each other to decide the final fate on each other to decide the final fate of Rome. Who knew that some impoverished of Rome. Who knew that some impoverished of Rome. Who knew that some impoverished noble named Julius Caesar would wind up noble named Julius Caesar would wind up noble named Julius Caesar would wind up beating them both?

beating them both? beating them both? The slave revolt led by Spartacus was The slave revolt led by Spartacus was The slave revolt led by Spartacus was the last such revolt in Roman history. the last such revolt in Roman history. the last such revolt in Roman history. Craas would probably tell you that it Craas would probably tell you that it Craas would probably tell you that it was the fact that he ordered 6,000 was the fact that he ordered 6,000 was the fact that he ordered 6,000 recaptured slaves crucified along the recaptured slaves crucified along the recaptured slaves crucified along the Aion way as the reason why. You see, Aion way as the reason why. You see, Aion way as the reason why. You see, though he ordered them crucified, he though he ordered them crucified, he though he ordered them crucified, he declined to order that the bodies be declined to order that the bodies be declined to order that the bodies be removed. The decomposing corpses, then removed. The decomposing corpses, then removed. The decomposing corpses, then skeletons, served as a stark reminder to skeletons, served as a stark reminder to skeletons, served as a stark reminder to slaves everywhere what happens if they slaves everywhere what happens if they slaves everywhere what happens if they forget their place in the world. More forget their place in the world. More forget their place in the world. More likely though, it was the shifting likely though, it was the shifting likely though, it was the shifting undercurrents of the Roman economy and undercurrents of the Roman economy and undercurrents of the Roman economy and Roman politics. The bulk of the Roman Roman politics. The bulk of the Roman Roman politics. The bulk of the Roman wars of territorial expansion, where wars of territorial expansion, where wars of territorial expansion, where slaves came from, were now a thing of slaves came from, were now a thing of slaves came from, were now a thing of the past. So, not only would there be the past. So, not only would there be the past. So, not only would there be fewer slaves in the future, but those fewer slaves in the future, but those fewer slaves in the future, but those slaves would inevitably become a more slaves would inevitably become a more slaves would inevitably become a more precious commodity. precious commodity. precious commodity. The rampant mistreatment that had The rampant mistreatment that had The rampant mistreatment that had characterized the master slave characterized the master slave characterized the master slave relationship previously shifted into relationship previously shifted into relationship previously shifted into something more humane. Eventually, in something more humane. Eventually, in something more humane. Eventually, in the empire, it would actually become a the empire, it would actually become a the empire, it would actually become a crime to kill a slave. Imagine that, not crime to kill a slave. Imagine that, not crime to kill a slave. Imagine that, not being able to destroy your own property.

being able to destroy your own property. being able to destroy your own property. How How How univilized. The declining slave univilized. The declining slave univilized. The declining slave population changed the dynamic. So, population changed the dynamic. So, population changed the dynamic. So, while slavery was still a terrible thing while slavery was still a terrible thing while slavery was still a terrible thing to endure, it was not so bad that huge to endure, it was not so bad that huge to endure, it was not so bad that huge armies would spontaneously spring up to armies would spontaneously spring up to armies would spontaneously spring up to threaten the peace. threaten the peace. threaten the peace. No, for the next few hundred years, it No, for the next few hundred years, it No, for the next few hundred years, it is pretty safe to say that the greatest is pretty safe to say that the greatest is pretty safe to say that the greatest threat to the peace was not revoling threat to the peace was not revoling threat to the peace was not revoling slaves or invading foreign armies, but slaves or invading foreign armies, but slaves or invading foreign armies, but rather the rampant scheming of ambitious rather the rampant scheming of ambitious rather the rampant scheming of ambitious nobles to put themselves in charge of nobles to put themselves in charge of nobles to put themselves in charge of the greatest empire the Western world the greatest empire the Western world the greatest empire the Western world had ever known. It was a race to see who had ever known. It was a race to see who had ever known. It was a race to see who could kill the 500-year-old republic could kill the 500-year-old republic could kill the 500-year-old republic first. And next week, we will cover one first. And next week, we will cover one first. And next week, we will cover one of the more infamous plots, deadly in of the more infamous plots, deadly in of the more infamous plots, deadly in ultimately hilarious in execution. The ultimately hilarious in execution. The ultimately hilarious in execution. The conspiracy of conspiracy of conspiracy of [Music] [Music] [Music] Cataline. Hello and welcome to the Cataline. Hello and welcome to the Cataline. Hello and welcome to the history of Rome. Episode 38, the history of Rome. Episode 38, the history of Rome. Episode 38, the Cataline Conspiracy.

Cataline Conspiracy. Cataline Conspiracy. There were dozens of contributing There were dozens of contributing There were dozens of contributing factors to the breakdown of the old factors to the breakdown of the old factors to the breakdown of the old republican order in the 1st century BC. republican order in the 1st century BC. republican order in the 1st century BC. Some economic, some administrative, some Some economic, some administrative, some Some economic, some administrative, some marshall. But what was really an issue marshall. But what was really an issue marshall. But what was really an issue was a sickness that had taken hold at was a sickness that had taken hold at was a sickness that had taken hold at the very root of the political the very root of the political the very root of the political system. Until now, the quasi religious system. Until now, the quasi religious system. Until now, the quasi religious sovereignty of the electoral process and sovereignty of the electoral process and sovereignty of the electoral process and the officials it produced was the officials it produced was the officials it produced was unquestioned. If you ran for console and unquestioned. If you ran for console and unquestioned. If you ran for console and lost, that was it. You had lost. Maybe lost, that was it. You had lost. Maybe lost, that was it. You had lost. Maybe your political career was dead and maybe your political career was dead and maybe your political career was dead and maybe you would run again someday, but you you would run again someday, but you you would run again someday, but you abided by the decision. When the Senate abided by the decision. When the Senate abided by the decision. When the Senate handed down decrees or the tribunes handed down decrees or the tribunes handed down decrees or the tribunes passed laws, maybe you didn't like it passed laws, maybe you didn't like it passed laws, maybe you didn't like it and maybe you did everything in your and maybe you did everything in your and maybe you did everything in your power to get them repealed, but there power to get them repealed, but there power to get them repealed, but there was a way things were done. Maybe it was a way things were done. Maybe it was a way things were done. Maybe it entered into your head to do something entered into your head to do something entered into your head to do something about those so and so down in the forum. about those so and so down in the forum. about those so and so down in the forum. And maybe after too much drink, the And maybe after too much drink, the And maybe after too much drink, the conversation turned to topics like conversation turned to topics like conversation turned to topics like assassination and military coups. The assassination and military coups. The assassination and military coups. The latter, no doubt a favorite topic latter, no doubt a favorite topic latter, no doubt a favorite topic amongst landless veterans for the whole amongst landless veterans for the whole amongst landless veterans for the whole of Roman history. But in the morning, of Roman history. But in the morning, of Roman history. But in the morning, everyone sobered up. The inertia of the everyone sobered up. The inertia of the everyone sobered up. The inertia of the system was simply too great to overcome.

system was simply too great to overcome. system was simply too great to overcome. While there is ample evidence of While there is ample evidence of While there is ample evidence of political assassination directed at political assassination directed at political assassination directed at threats to the old order, the Graei threats to the old order, the Graei threats to the old order, the Graei being the most famous example, there's being the most famous example, there's being the most famous example, there's scant record of extraleal killing scant record of extraleal killing scant record of extraleal killing directed at the old order. directed at the old order. directed at the old order. But by the first century BC, whatever But by the first century BC, whatever But by the first century BC, whatever spell that held ambitious men in check spell that held ambitious men in check spell that held ambitious men in check when they didn't get their way had been when they didn't get their way had been when they didn't get their way had been broken. The corruption that had taken broken. The corruption that had taken broken. The corruption that had taken hold at all rungs of society, the hold at all rungs of society, the hold at all rungs of society, the kickbacks enjoyed by provincial kickbacks enjoyed by provincial kickbacks enjoyed by provincial governors, the bribery that secured governors, the bribery that secured governors, the bribery that secured lucrative posts and favorable court lucrative posts and favorable court lucrative posts and favorable court rulings, the cash for vote schemes that rulings, the cash for vote schemes that rulings, the cash for vote schemes that more and more determined the outcome of more and more determined the outcome of more and more determined the outcome of elections had finally reached the heart elections had finally reached the heart elections had finally reached the heart of the system. An entire generation of of the system. An entire generation of of the system. An entire generation of men had grown up in the shadow of Marius men had grown up in the shadow of Marius men had grown up in the shadow of Marius and SA. No amount of democratic and SA. No amount of democratic and SA. No amount of democratic whitewashing could hide the truth. Power whitewashing could hide the truth. Power whitewashing could hide the truth. Power sprang from the sword. And for those sprang from the sword. And for those sprang from the sword. And for those bold enough and strong enough to seize bold enough and strong enough to seize bold enough and strong enough to seize what they could not legitimately earn, what they could not legitimately earn, what they could not legitimately earn, it was understood that power had a way it was understood that power had a way it was understood that power had a way of retroactively legitimizing even the of retroactively legitimizing even the of retroactively legitimizing even the most illegitimate of actions. The only most illegitimate of actions. The only most illegitimate of actions. The only rule was power by any means necessary rule was power by any means necessary rule was power by any means necessary because once in power, the rules could because once in power, the rules could because once in power, the rules could be changed and those who disagreed could be changed and those who disagreed could be changed and those who disagreed could be eliminated.

be eliminated. be eliminated. Oz, the great and terrible, had been Oz, the great and terrible, had been Oz, the great and terrible, had been seen through, and the man behind the seen through, and the man behind the seen through, and the man behind the curtain curtain curtain exposed. Cicero, the most persuasive exposed. Cicero, the most persuasive exposed. Cicero, the most persuasive speaker of his day, and perhaps in all speaker of his day, and perhaps in all speaker of his day, and perhaps in all of Roman history, spent his entire of Roman history, spent his entire of Roman history, spent his entire career imploring his countrymen to pay career imploring his countrymen to pay career imploring his countrymen to pay no attention to the man behind the no attention to the man behind the no attention to the man behind the curtain. But words are no match for curtain. But words are no match for curtain. But words are no match for action. And those of us with the swords, action. And those of us with the swords, action. And those of us with the swords, as Pompy so aptly described, his as Pompy so aptly described, his as Pompy so aptly described, his brethren, were busy plotting how to kill brethren, were busy plotting how to kill brethren, were busy plotting how to kill the man behind the curtain, become the the man behind the curtain, become the the man behind the curtain, become the man behind the curtain, become Rome man behind the curtain, become Rome man behind the curtain, become Rome itself. Rome, the great and itself. Rome, the great and itself. Rome, the great and terrible. Lucius Sergius Catalina, known terrible. Lucius Sergius Catalina, known terrible. Lucius Sergius Catalina, known to history as Cataline, attempted in 63 to history as Cataline, attempted in 63 to history as Cataline, attempted in 63 BC to kill the man behind the curtain. BC to kill the man behind the curtain. BC to kill the man behind the curtain. His half-baked scheme never got off the His half-baked scheme never got off the His half-baked scheme never got off the ground. But his story touches on nearly ground. But his story touches on nearly ground. But his story touches on nearly every major player in the subsequent every major player in the subsequent every major player in the subsequent years of civil war in Rome. And while years of civil war in Rome. And while years of civil war in Rome. And while his plot was foiled, the sheer volume of his plot was foiled, the sheer volume of his plot was foiled, the sheer volume of willing accompllices shocked polite willing accompllices shocked polite willing accompllices shocked polite company and reminded those with similar company and reminded those with similar company and reminded those with similar ambition that one of these days the ambition that one of these days the ambition that one of these days the Republic was going to snap in two. And Republic was going to snap in two. And Republic was going to snap in two. And the important thing was not to save it, the important thing was not to save it, the important thing was not to save it, but to make sure that you came out on but to make sure that you came out on but to make sure that you came out on top when the bow finally top when the bow finally top when the bow finally broke. Cataline was born in 108 BC to an broke. Cataline was born in 108 BC to an broke. Cataline was born in 108 BC to an ancient patrician family. While he came ancient patrician family. While he came ancient patrician family. While he came from a line of consoles and thus would from a line of consoles and thus would from a line of consoles and thus would never be considered a new man, the last never be considered a new man, the last never be considered a new man, the last of those consoles had served in the 380s of those consoles had served in the 380s of those consoles had served in the 380s BC. So Catalan carried with him all the BC. So Catalan carried with him all the BC. So Catalan carried with him all the arrogance of a well pedigreed aristocrat arrogance of a well pedigreed aristocrat arrogance of a well pedigreed aristocrat while simultaneously bearing the while simultaneously bearing the while simultaneously bearing the insecurity of knowing his family had insecurity of knowing his family had insecurity of knowing his family had been trading on a name that no one in been trading on a name that no one in been trading on a name that no one in recent memory had done much to earn.

recent memory had done much to earn. recent memory had done much to earn. This would turn out to be a dangerous This would turn out to be a dangerous This would turn out to be a dangerous combination. Cataline was intent on combination. Cataline was intent on combination. Cataline was intent on returning his family to glory. He was returning his family to glory. He was returning his family to glory. He was bright, energetic, and charismatic. a bright, energetic, and charismatic. a bright, energetic, and charismatic. a natural leader, brave in the field, and natural leader, brave in the field, and natural leader, brave in the field, and savvy in the savvy in the savvy in the forum. There was no good reason why he forum. There was no good reason why he forum. There was no good reason why he should not be able to lead his family should not be able to lead his family should not be able to lead his family out of the political wilderness, and out of the political wilderness, and out of the political wilderness, and indeed his career began promisingly indeed his career began promisingly indeed his career began promisingly enough. If only he had been a good man. enough. If only he had been a good man. enough. If only he had been a good man. He entered public life by way of the He entered public life by way of the He entered public life by way of the social wars, serving with distinction social wars, serving with distinction social wars, serving with distinction under the command of Pompy Strabo, and under the command of Pompy Strabo, and under the command of Pompy Strabo, and alongside young Pompy Magnus and the man alongside young Pompy Magnus and the man alongside young Pompy Magnus and the man who would become his arch rival, Marcus who would become his arch rival, Marcus who would become his arch rival, Marcus Tullius Tullius Tullius Cicero. During the years of conflict Cicero. During the years of conflict Cicero. During the years of conflict between Marius and Sulla, Cataline did between Marius and Sulla, Cataline did between Marius and Sulla, Cataline did his best to keep his head down. He was his best to keep his head down. He was his best to keep his head down. He was neither important enough to be courted neither important enough to be courted neither important enough to be courted nor important enough to be disposed of. nor important enough to be disposed of. nor important enough to be disposed of. Semi-obscurity can be your best friend Semi-obscurity can be your best friend Semi-obscurity can be your best friend in times of civil strife. But once in times of civil strife. But once in times of civil strife. But once Sullah returned from the east, Cataline Sullah returned from the east, Cataline Sullah returned from the east, Cataline was one of those officially neutral was one of those officially neutral was one of those officially neutral aristocrats who knew which way the winds aristocrats who knew which way the winds aristocrats who knew which way the winds were blowing, and he publicly backed the were blowing, and he publicly backed the were blowing, and he publicly backed the incoming dictator. He served in a incoming dictator. He served in a incoming dictator. He served in a variety of administrative posts overseas variety of administrative posts overseas variety of administrative posts overseas after Cell's retirement, and the young after Cell's retirement, and the young after Cell's retirement, and the young man seemed well positioned for an man seemed well positioned for an man seemed well positioned for an honorable honorable honorable career. But as is often the case, the career. But as is often the case, the career. But as is often the case, the true character of a man will eventually true character of a man will eventually true character of a man will eventually come out, and how he deals with come out, and how he deals with come out, and how he deals with adversity is often the best time to adversity is often the best time to adversity is often the best time to gauge what that true character is. In 73 gauge what that true character is. In 73 gauge what that true character is. In 73 BC, Cataline was accused of adultery and BC, Cataline was accused of adultery and BC, Cataline was accused of adultery and not just run-of-the-mill adultery, but not just run-of-the-mill adultery, but not just run-of-the-mill adultery, but adultery committed with a vestal virgin, adultery committed with a vestal virgin, adultery committed with a vestal virgin, a very serious offense. But at the

a very serious offense. But at the a very serious offense. But at the trial, one of the leading men of the day trial, one of the leading men of the day trial, one of the leading men of the day and leader of the aristocratic party and leader of the aristocratic party and leader of the aristocratic party testified on behalf of Cataline. testified on behalf of Cataline. testified on behalf of Cataline. Character witnessing was a far more Character witnessing was a far more Character witnessing was a far more potent legal force in Rome than it is potent legal force in Rome than it is potent legal force in Rome than it is today. And with the word of Quintis today. And with the word of Quintis today. And with the word of Quintis Catauus backing him, Cataline was Catauus backing him, Cataline was Catauus backing him, Cataline was acquitted. Now, why one of the most acquitted. Now, why one of the most acquitted. Now, why one of the most important men in Rome would put his own important men in Rome would put his own important men in Rome would put his own name on the line for a minor noble was a name on the line for a minor noble was a name on the line for a minor noble was a curiosity. The Roman chattering classes curiosity. The Roman chattering classes curiosity. The Roman chattering classes assume bribery played a role. So, in his assume bribery played a role. So, in his assume bribery played a role. So, in his first real test, Cataline seems to have first real test, Cataline seems to have first real test, Cataline seems to have chosen to circumvent the rules and chosen to circumvent the rules and chosen to circumvent the rules and subvert Rome's judicial system rather subvert Rome's judicial system rather subvert Rome's judicial system rather than directly face whatever consequences than directly face whatever consequences than directly face whatever consequences he was in store for. It was a pattern he was in store for. It was a pattern he was in store for. It was a pattern that would repeat itself throughout his that would repeat itself throughout his that would repeat itself throughout his career. career. career. But with the bullet successfully dodged, But with the bullet successfully dodged, But with the bullet successfully dodged, Cataline went on to serve as prader in Cataline went on to serve as prader in Cataline went on to serve as prader in 68 BC and then pro prader in Africa the 68 BC and then pro prader in Africa the 68 BC and then pro prader in Africa the next two years. In 66 BC, he entered his next two years. In 66 BC, he entered his next two years. In 66 BC, he entered his name as a candidate for the console name as a candidate for the console name as a candidate for the console ship, but the sensors denied his ship, but the sensors denied his ship, but the sensors denied his eligibility. A minor legal technicality eligibility. A minor legal technicality eligibility. A minor legal technicality barred his entrance into the race, barred his entrance into the race, barred his entrance into the race, namely that the citizens of Africa were namely that the citizens of Africa were namely that the citizens of Africa were accusing him of abuse of power, of using accusing him of abuse of power, of using accusing him of abuse of power, of using public resources for private gain, and public resources for private gain, and public resources for private gain, and taking kickbacks. Furiously denying the taking kickbacks. Furiously denying the taking kickbacks. Furiously denying the charges, Cataline was enraged that his charges, Cataline was enraged that his charges, Cataline was enraged that his name was being dragged through the mud, name was being dragged through the mud, name was being dragged through the mud, but there was nothing he could do. He but there was nothing he could do. He but there was nothing he could do. He would have to wait until the matter was would have to wait until the matter was would have to wait until the matter was cleared up to run for console again. In cleared up to run for console again. In cleared up to run for console again. In 65 BC, he stood trial for abuse of power 65 BC, he stood trial for abuse of power 65 BC, he stood trial for abuse of power and was once again acquitted when a and was once again acquitted when a and was once again acquitted when a number of leading men vouched for his number of leading men vouched for his number of leading men vouched for his character, shiny, precious character.

character, shiny, precious character. character, shiny, precious character. The skeleton of Cataline's career to The skeleton of Cataline's career to The skeleton of Cataline's career to this point is a matter of public record, this point is a matter of public record, this point is a matter of public record, but a few of the more unsavory details but a few of the more unsavory details but a few of the more unsavory details are filled in by Cicero in his famous are filled in by Cicero in his famous are filled in by Cicero in his famous denunciation and later by the historian denunciation and later by the historian denunciation and later by the historian Solist who painted the entire Catalinian Solist who painted the entire Catalinian Solist who painted the entire Catalinian affair as a morality tale with Cataline affair as a morality tale with Cataline affair as a morality tale with Cataline starring as the despicable enemy of the starring as the despicable enemy of the starring as the despicable enemy of the public good. So, it is sometimes hard to public good. So, it is sometimes hard to public good. So, it is sometimes hard to tell how many of his actions were real tell how many of his actions were real tell how many of his actions were real and how many were embellished or made up and how many were embellished or made up and how many were embellished or made up out of whole cloth. For example, there out of whole cloth. For example, there out of whole cloth. For example, there is a story of an initial conspiracy that is a story of an initial conspiracy that is a story of an initial conspiracy that has Cataline planning the murder of half has Cataline planning the murder of half has Cataline planning the murder of half the Senate. And even men at the time the Senate. And even men at the time the Senate. And even men at the time believe this episode resided only in believe this episode resided only in believe this episode resided only in Cicero's politically motivated Cicero's politically motivated Cicero's politically motivated imagination. Certainly, Cataline was not imagination. Certainly, Cataline was not imagination. Certainly, Cataline was not connected to any such plot by the time connected to any such plot by the time connected to any such plot by the time he was allowed to run for the consil he was allowed to run for the consil he was allowed to run for the consil ship the following year in 64 ship the following year in 64 ship the following year in 64 BC. As much as Cicero seems to have BC. As much as Cicero seems to have BC. As much as Cicero seems to have genuinely hated Cataline, he really genuinely hated Cataline, he really genuinely hated Cataline, he really ought to have cut him some slack. If it ought to have cut him some slack. If it ought to have cut him some slack. If it hadn't been for Cataline, it is likely hadn't been for Cataline, it is likely hadn't been for Cataline, it is likely that Cicero never would have won that Cicero never would have won that Cicero never would have won election and earned the consil ship that election and earned the consil ship that election and earned the consil ship that he had been striving for his whole life.

he had been striving for his whole life. he had been striving for his whole life. With Cataline running on a platform of With Cataline running on a platform of With Cataline running on a platform of debt cancellation and promising the sun, debt cancellation and promising the sun, debt cancellation and promising the sun, moon, and stars to any poor sod who moon, and stars to any poor sod who moon, and stars to any poor sod who would listen, the nobility had no choice would listen, the nobility had no choice would listen, the nobility had no choice but to throw their support behind the but to throw their support behind the but to throw their support behind the provincial novice homo who had an provincial novice homo who had an provincial novice homo who had an unhealthy obsession with philosophy. unhealthy obsession with philosophy. unhealthy obsession with philosophy. Marcus Tullius Cicero. Sure, he was a Marcus Tullius Cicero. Sure, he was a Marcus Tullius Cicero. Sure, he was a pleb who was not even a true Roman, but pleb who was not even a true Roman, but pleb who was not even a true Roman, but he was the most conservative of the he was the most conservative of the he was the most conservative of the available candidates and at least argued available candidates and at least argued available candidates and at least argued for the continued dominance of the for the continued dominance of the for the continued dominance of the Senate in political Senate in political Senate in political affairs. Cicero had been born in Arpium, affairs. Cicero had been born in Arpium, affairs. Cicero had been born in Arpium, 60 mi south of Rome. True, the region 60 mi south of Rome. True, the region 60 mi south of Rome. True, the region had long been a part of Rome, and its had long been a part of Rome, and its had long been a part of Rome, and its population had been granted full population had been granted full population had been granted full citizenship not long after the end of citizenship not long after the end of citizenship not long after the end of the Second Punic War. But Cicero was the Second Punic War. But Cicero was the Second Punic War. But Cicero was never allowed to forget that he was a never allowed to forget that he was a never allowed to forget that he was a mere provincial. and not just a mere provincial. and not just a mere provincial. and not just a provincial but a pleb provincial. He provincial but a pleb provincial. He provincial but a pleb provincial. He could trace to no ancestors and would could trace to no ancestors and would could trace to no ancestors and would have to rely on his own drive to battle have to rely on his own drive to battle have to rely on his own drive to battle his way up the Roman political his way up the Roman political his way up the Roman political ladder. Luckily, he was one of the most ladder. Luckily, he was one of the most ladder. Luckily, he was one of the most gifted men of his generation. From the gifted men of his generation. From the gifted men of his generation. From the start, he was recognized as a brilliant start, he was recognized as a brilliant start, he was recognized as a brilliant student and his family made sure that he student and his family made sure that he student and his family made sure that he received the finest education they could received the finest education they could received the finest education they could afford. Like most of the nobility, he afford. Like most of the nobility, he afford. Like most of the nobility, he was fluent in both Greek and Latin and was fluent in both Greek and Latin and was fluent in both Greek and Latin and devoured Hellenistic philosophy. More devoured Hellenistic philosophy. More devoured Hellenistic philosophy. More than any other man, Cicero was than any other man, Cicero was than any other man, Cicero was responsible for the full integration of responsible for the full integration of responsible for the full integration of Greek thought into Roman life, Greek thought into Roman life, Greek thought into Roman life, translating mountains of Greek translating mountains of Greek translating mountains of Greek literature into Latin and promoting its literature into Latin and promoting its literature into Latin and promoting its study study study endlessly. As I said at the very endlessly. As I said at the very endlessly. As I said at the very beginning of this series, the Romans beginning of this series, the Romans beginning of this series, the Romans were never particularly disposed to

were never particularly disposed to were never particularly disposed to invention and creativity, but they were invention and creativity, but they were invention and creativity, but they were masters of co-option and masters of co-option and masters of co-option and assimilation. In Rome, no good idea went assimilation. In Rome, no good idea went assimilation. In Rome, no good idea went unadopted. And in Greece, Cicero saw unadopted. And in Greece, Cicero saw unadopted. And in Greece, Cicero saw good ideas everywhere. good ideas everywhere. good ideas everywhere. But as much as he contributed to the But as much as he contributed to the But as much as he contributed to the cultural enrichment of Rome, Cicero saw cultural enrichment of Rome, Cicero saw cultural enrichment of Rome, Cicero saw himself primarily as a politician and himself primarily as a politician and himself primarily as a politician and pointed to his political career above pointed to his political career above pointed to his political career above his philosophical or legal pursuits as his philosophical or legal pursuits as his philosophical or legal pursuits as the achievement he was most proud the achievement he was most proud the achievement he was most proud of. After serving in the legions with of. After serving in the legions with of. After serving in the legions with resigned ill humor during the social resigned ill humor during the social resigned ill humor during the social war, Cicero started his legal career in war, Cicero started his legal career in war, Cicero started his legal career in the 80s BC, quickly garnering a the 80s BC, quickly garnering a the 80s BC, quickly garnering a reputation as a great ortor. But after reputation as a great ortor. But after reputation as a great ortor. But after defending a man in a murder trial and defending a man in a murder trial and defending a man in a murder trial and pointing the finger at a Sullen ally pointing the finger at a Sullen ally pointing the finger at a Sullen ally while Sullah still sat on the throne, while Sullah still sat on the throne, while Sullah still sat on the throne, Cicero took a pragmatic extended tour of Cicero took a pragmatic extended tour of Cicero took a pragmatic extended tour of Greece until the affair blew over. While Greece until the affair blew over. While Greece until the affair blew over. While in Greece, he was put into contact with in Greece, he was put into contact with in Greece, he was put into contact with the masters of Greek philosophy and the masters of Greek philosophy and the masters of Greek philosophy and rhetoric and Cicero perfected a unique rhetoric and Cicero perfected a unique rhetoric and Cicero perfected a unique ortorial style that would make him the ortorial style that would make him the ortorial style that would make him the acknowledged master of his day. In 75 acknowledged master of his day. In 75 acknowledged master of his day. In 75 BC, he was elected quester for Sicily BC, he was elected quester for Sicily BC, he was elected quester for Sicily and endeared himself to the locals for and endeared himself to the locals for and endeared himself to the locals for his relatively honest dealings. They his relatively honest dealings. They his relatively honest dealings. They ultimately asked him to take on a ultimately asked him to take on a ultimately asked him to take on a politically dangerous case, prosecuting politically dangerous case, prosecuting politically dangerous case, prosecuting the Roman governor of Sicily on charges the Roman governor of Sicily on charges the Roman governor of Sicily on charges of of of corruption. Cicero finally agreed and corruption. Cicero finally agreed and corruption. Cicero finally agreed and spun the trial into his big break, spun the trial into his big break, spun the trial into his big break, successfully prosecuting the governor, successfully prosecuting the governor, successfully prosecuting the governor, whose corruption far exceeded the whose corruption far exceeded the whose corruption far exceeded the acceptable standards of the day. From acceptable standards of the day. From acceptable standards of the day. From that point on he was on the fast track that point on he was on the fast track that point on he was on the fast track achieving every step of the cursus

achieving every step of the cursus achieving every step of the cursus honorum in his year finally winning the honorum in his year finally winning the honorum in his year finally winning the consil ship in 64 BC for a term to be consil ship in 64 BC for a term to be consil ship in 64 BC for a term to be served the following served the following served the following year. Cataline though defeated by Cicero year. Cataline though defeated by Cicero year. Cataline though defeated by Cicero in that election was undeterred and ran in that election was undeterred and ran in that election was undeterred and ran again the next year. but amidst a trial again the next year. but amidst a trial again the next year. but amidst a trial for his role in the sullen purges for his role in the sullen purges for his role in the sullen purges spearheaded by Ko the Younger and a lack spearheaded by Ko the Younger and a lack spearheaded by Ko the Younger and a lack of support from his wealthy benefactors of support from his wealthy benefactors of support from his wealthy benefactors crisis among them who had supported him crisis among them who had supported him crisis among them who had supported him as an antidote to senatorial domination. as an antidote to senatorial domination. as an antidote to senatorial domination. Cataline's last campaign never got off Cataline's last campaign never got off Cataline's last campaign never got off the ground. His career was effectively the ground. His career was effectively the ground. His career was effectively over and had he been born in another age over and had he been born in another age over and had he been born in another age he may have sulked and raged but would he may have sulked and raged but would he may have sulked and raged but would have gone on with his life and found have gone on with his life and found have gone on with his life and found other outlets for his passions. But in other outlets for his passions. But in other outlets for his passions. But in this age, he was able to see his final this age, he was able to see his final this age, he was able to see his final defeat as merely an advisory defeat as merely an advisory defeat as merely an advisory decision. And more importantly, he was decision. And more importantly, he was decision. And more importantly, he was able to find other men who were ready to able to find other men who were ready to able to find other men who were ready to help him expose the man behind the help him expose the man behind the help him expose the man behind the curtain. Cataline began to conspire curtain. Cataline began to conspire curtain. Cataline began to conspire actively with other disaffected actively with other disaffected actively with other disaffected citizens. Their aim was simple.

citizens. Their aim was simple. citizens. Their aim was simple. Overthrow the government. Overthrow the government. Overthrow the government. Now, Cataline was motivated by personal Now, Cataline was motivated by personal Now, Cataline was motivated by personal delusions of grandeur and driven to such delusions of grandeur and driven to such delusions of grandeur and driven to such extreme measures out of an inflamed extreme measures out of an inflamed extreme measures out of an inflamed sense of bitterness. The men he gathered sense of bitterness. The men he gathered sense of bitterness. The men he gathered around his plot, however, were almost around his plot, however, were almost around his plot, however, were almost uniformly brought on board out of a base uniformly brought on board out of a base uniformly brought on board out of a base material material material self-interest. From the upper classes, self-interest. From the upper classes, self-interest. From the upper classes, he found indebted nobles and corrupt ex he found indebted nobles and corrupt ex he found indebted nobles and corrupt ex senators who had been purged from the senators who had been purged from the senators who had been purged from the roles by the sensors. Men who wanted roles by the sensors. Men who wanted roles by the sensors. Men who wanted power but couldn't have it, and men who power but couldn't have it, and men who power but couldn't have it, and men who owed money but didn't want to repay it. owed money but didn't want to repay it. owed money but didn't want to repay it. Cataline promised them access back to Cataline promised them access back to Cataline promised them access back to control and a cancellation of all debts control and a cancellation of all debts control and a cancellation of all debts once he was in charge. From the lower once he was in charge. From the lower once he was in charge. From the lower classes, he stoked the bitterness of classes, he stoked the bitterness of classes, he stoked the bitterness of landless veterans and indebted landless veterans and indebted landless veterans and indebted commoners. Up and down the line, the commoners. Up and down the line, the commoners. Up and down the line, the message was the same. Once we overthrow message was the same. Once we overthrow message was the same. Once we overthrow the government, everyone will get the government, everyone will get the government, everyone will get everything they ever desired. Land, everything they ever desired. Land, everything they ever desired. Land, money, power, the whole kitten money, power, the whole kitten money, power, the whole kitten kaboodleoodle. This was not an kaboodleoodle. This was not an kaboodleoodle. This was not an ideological revolution. This was naked ideological revolution. This was naked ideological revolution. This was naked self-interest at large.

self-interest at large. self-interest at large. In Aturia, an ex centurion named Gas In Aturia, an ex centurion named Gas In Aturia, an ex centurion named Gas Manlas began gathering an army. It is Manlas began gathering an army. It is Manlas began gathering an army. It is unclear how connected Manus and Cataline unclear how connected Manus and Cataline unclear how connected Manus and Cataline were at this point, but it speaks were at this point, but it speaks were at this point, but it speaks volumes that when Cataline was exiled volumes that when Cataline was exiled volumes that when Cataline was exiled after his plot was exposed, he headed after his plot was exposed, he headed after his plot was exposed, he headed straight for the force Manlas had straight for the force Manlas had straight for the force Manlas had assembled in Rome. The plan was to kick assembled in Rome. The plan was to kick assembled in Rome. The plan was to kick off the coup by assassinating Cicero. off the coup by assassinating Cicero. off the coup by assassinating Cicero. From there, strategically located From there, strategically located From there, strategically located conspirators would begin setting fires conspirators would begin setting fires conspirators would begin setting fires across the city and generally plunge across the city and generally plunge across the city and generally plunge Rome into Rome into Rome into chaos. At least that's what Cicero chaos. At least that's what Cicero chaos. At least that's what Cicero reported to the Senate the day after he reported to the Senate the day after he reported to the Senate the day after he was notified of the assassination was notified of the assassination was notified of the assassination plot. Cicero<unk>'s informants had plot. Cicero<unk>'s informants had plot. Cicero<unk>'s informants had apparently gotten word to the council of apparently gotten word to the council of apparently gotten word to the council of the threat, and Cicero posted extra the threat, and Cicero posted extra the threat, and Cicero posted extra guards foiling the wouldbe assassins. guards foiling the wouldbe assassins. guards foiling the wouldbe assassins. There's a great deal of ambiguity about There's a great deal of ambiguity about There's a great deal of ambiguity about whether any of this is true, but Cicero whether any of this is true, but Cicero whether any of this is true, but Cicero outlined the whole affair so eloquently outlined the whole affair so eloquently outlined the whole affair so eloquently and blamed Cataline so thoroughly that and blamed Cataline so thoroughly that and blamed Cataline so thoroughly that the Senate came to believe the the Senate came to believe the the Senate came to believe the charges. Famously, as the Senate charges. Famously, as the Senate charges. Famously, as the Senate listened to Cicero, they moved one by listened to Cicero, they moved one by listened to Cicero, they moved one by one away from Cataline, who was one away from Cataline, who was one away from Cataline, who was eventually left sitting by himself, eventually left sitting by himself, eventually left sitting by himself, physically and politically isolated.

physically and politically isolated. physically and politically isolated. I'm not exaggerating when I say that I'm not exaggerating when I say that I'm not exaggerating when I say that Cicero's Catalinarian orations are still Cicero's Catalinarian orations are still Cicero's Catalinarian orations are still held up today as some of the finest held up today as some of the finest held up today as some of the finest rhetoric ever uttered by man. Now, how rhetoric ever uttered by man. Now, how rhetoric ever uttered by man. Now, how much Cicero was exaggerating is another much Cicero was exaggerating is another much Cicero was exaggerating is another story story story completely. There is speculation that completely. There is speculation that completely. There is speculation that while Cataline was indeed up to while Cataline was indeed up to while Cataline was indeed up to something, the assassination attempt may something, the assassination attempt may something, the assassination attempt may have been invented by Cicero to secure have been invented by Cicero to secure have been invented by Cicero to secure the near dictatorial powers he needed to the near dictatorial powers he needed to the near dictatorial powers he needed to deal with the alleged crisis. deal with the alleged crisis. deal with the alleged crisis. It is further speculated that he wanted It is further speculated that he wanted It is further speculated that he wanted those powers not to deal with the those powers not to deal with the those powers not to deal with the specific machinations of Cataline and specific machinations of Cataline and specific machinations of Cataline and his conspirators, but rather to lay the his conspirators, but rather to lay the his conspirators, but rather to lay the groundwork for a defense of the republic groundwork for a defense of the republic groundwork for a defense of the republic against Pompy, who was presently on his against Pompy, who was presently on his against Pompy, who was presently on his way home from the east at the head of a way home from the east at the head of a way home from the east at the head of a large veteran army and with more money large veteran army and with more money large veteran army and with more money at his disposal than the Roman treasury at his disposal than the Roman treasury at his disposal than the Roman treasury had ever had ever had ever held. Cicero wanted to make sure that held. Cicero wanted to make sure that held. Cicero wanted to make sure that any internal strife in Rome was quashed any internal strife in Rome was quashed any internal strife in Rome was quashed before Pompy returned. Both Marius and before Pompy returned. Both Marius and before Pompy returned. Both Marius and Sullah had been able to exploit Sullah had been able to exploit Sullah had been able to exploit political divisions in the city in their political divisions in the city in their political divisions in the city in their quest for power. Cicero wanted to deny quest for power. Cicero wanted to deny quest for power. Cicero wanted to deny Pompy a similar Pompy a similar Pompy a similar opportunity. Cataline, now a pariah, opportunity. Cataline, now a pariah, opportunity. Cataline, now a pariah, agreed to go into exile, but lied about agreed to go into exile, but lied about agreed to go into exile, but lied about his destination and instead headed for his destination and instead headed for his destination and instead headed for Aturia to join Manly's growing army. But Aturia to join Manly's growing army. But Aturia to join Manly's growing army. But for now, the coup was still on, even for now, the coup was still on, even for now, the coup was still on, even without Cataline overseeing the without Cataline overseeing the without Cataline overseeing the operation in Rome. But the remaining operation in Rome. But the remaining operation in Rome. But the remaining conspirators were not particularly adept conspirators were not particularly adept conspirators were not particularly adept at their jobs. They attempted to entice at their jobs. They attempted to entice at their jobs. They attempted to entice a group of GIC emissaries to join their a group of GIC emissaries to join their a group of GIC emissaries to join their cause, but the visiting Gauls simply cause, but the visiting Gauls simply cause, but the visiting Gauls simply took the opportunity to earn the

took the opportunity to earn the took the opportunity to earn the goodwill of the Senate by exposing the goodwill of the Senate by exposing the goodwill of the Senate by exposing the plot. They talked five of the leading plot. They talked five of the leading plot. They talked five of the leading conspirators into affixing their name to conspirators into affixing their name to conspirators into affixing their name to a letter promising the Gauls they were a letter promising the Gauls they were a letter promising the Gauls they were fully committed to rebellion. The fully committed to rebellion. The fully committed to rebellion. The careless plotters forgot the first and careless plotters forgot the first and careless plotters forgot the first and second rule of Fight Club. And when the second rule of Fight Club. And when the second rule of Fight Club. And when the Gauls presented the document to the Gauls presented the document to the Gauls presented the document to the Senate, the five men were arrested and Senate, the five men were arrested and Senate, the five men were arrested and the conspiracy inside Rome was the conspiracy inside Rome was the conspiracy inside Rome was shortcircuited. Cicero and Ko led the shortcircuited. Cicero and Ko led the shortcircuited. Cicero and Ko led the charge in the Senate to have the men charge in the Senate to have the men charge in the Senate to have the men executed at once. Julius Caesar opposed executed at once. Julius Caesar opposed executed at once. Julius Caesar opposed the death sentence, arguing that exile the death sentence, arguing that exile the death sentence, arguing that exile was preferable. It would not set a good was preferable. It would not set a good was preferable. It would not set a good precedent to have men of senatorial rank precedent to have men of senatorial rank precedent to have men of senatorial rank executed without trial. executed without trial. executed without trial. But with Cicero and Ko arguing that But with Cicero and Ko arguing that But with Cicero and Ko arguing that punishment must be swift and harsh, the punishment must be swift and harsh, the punishment must be swift and harsh, the Senate relented and ordered the five Senate relented and ordered the five Senate relented and ordered the five strangled. For the rest of his career, strangled. For the rest of his career, strangled. For the rest of his career, Cicero's enemies would bring up this Cicero's enemies would bring up this Cicero's enemies would bring up this bloodthirsty and illegal railroading of bloodthirsty and illegal railroading of bloodthirsty and illegal railroading of Roman citizens against him. Roman citizens against him. Roman citizens against him. Cicero<unk>'s exile during the chaos of Cicero<unk>'s exile during the chaos of Cicero<unk>'s exile during the chaos of the subsequent years would be based the subsequent years would be based the subsequent years would be based largely on his actions towards the five largely on his actions towards the five largely on his actions towards the five conspirators on that day.

conspirators on that day. conspirators on that day. Certainly his actions subtly undercut Certainly his actions subtly undercut Certainly his actions subtly undercut every argument he would ever make about every argument he would ever make about every argument he would ever make about the need to respect the rule of law and the need to respect the rule of law and the need to respect the rule of law and the constitution of the constitution of the constitution of Rome. With the inside men gone, the Rome. With the inside men gone, the Rome. With the inside men gone, the whole plot quickly whole plot quickly whole plot quickly imploded. Mass desertions from the imploded. Mass desertions from the imploded. Mass desertions from the insurgent army forced Manlas and insurgent army forced Manlas and insurgent army forced Manlas and Cataline to lead those left around the Cataline to lead those left around the Cataline to lead those left around the countryside, studiously avoiding the countryside, studiously avoiding the countryside, studiously avoiding the legions they encountered. Eventually legions they encountered. Eventually legions they encountered. Eventually though, they were cornered and forced to though, they were cornered and forced to though, they were cornered and forced to fight. The rebels, little more than a fight. The rebels, little more than a fight. The rebels, little more than a mob, were mob, were mob, were destroyed. Solist makes a point of destroyed. Solist makes a point of destroyed. Solist makes a point of reporting that Cataline was killed while reporting that Cataline was killed while reporting that Cataline was killed while fighting on the front lines and unlike fighting on the front lines and unlike fighting on the front lines and unlike many of his men, died of frontal wounds, many of his men, died of frontal wounds, many of his men, died of frontal wounds, not wounds in the back. The dishonorable not wounds in the back. The dishonorable not wounds in the back. The dishonorable sign that a man had turned to run. The final verdict on Cataline was run. The final verdict on Cataline was that he was a courageous, ambitious, and that he was a courageous, ambitious, and that he was a courageous, ambitious, and corrupt man who concocted a plot far corrupt man who concocted a plot far corrupt man who concocted a plot far more ambitious than his abilities more ambitious than his abilities more ambitious than his abilities warranted. warranted. warranted. He was forced to ally himself with the He was forced to ally himself with the He was forced to ally himself with the dregs of both Roman nobility and the dregs of both Roman nobility and the dregs of both Roman nobility and the lower classes and he was easily bested lower classes and he was easily bested lower classes and he was easily bested by better men. He was outmaneuvered by by better men. He was outmaneuvered by by better men. He was outmaneuvered by Cicero at nearly every step never Cicero at nearly every step never Cicero at nearly every step never standing a chance against Rome's standing a chance against Rome's standing a chance against Rome's greatest politician. The conspiracy of greatest politician. The conspiracy of greatest politician. The conspiracy of Cataline was an instant legend in Roman Cataline was an instant legend in Roman Cataline was an instant legend in Roman history both for the central role played history both for the central role played history both for the central role played by Cicero and because it provided a by Cicero and because it provided a by Cicero and because it provided a blueprint for how not to organize a blueprint for how not to organize a blueprint for how not to organize a coup. Julius Caesar of course was right coup. Julius Caesar of course was right coup. Julius Caesar of course was right there the whole time. no doubt taking there the whole time. no doubt taking there the whole time. no doubt taking notes, mental or otherwise. I like to notes, mental or otherwise. I like to notes, mental or otherwise. I like to imagine that somewhere in those notes,

imagine that somewhere in those notes, imagine that somewhere in those notes, in big bold letters, is the line, "Make in big bold letters, is the line, "Make in big bold letters, is the line, "Make sure Cicero is out of the way." sure Cicero is out of the way." sure Cicero is out of the way." Next week, Julius Caesar, young senator Next week, Julius Caesar, young senator Next week, Julius Caesar, young senator on the rise, will make his first attempt on the rise, will make his first attempt on the rise, will make his first attempt to make sure that Cicero is out of the to make sure that Cicero is out of the to make sure that Cicero is out of the way. Not by attacking him, but by asking way. Not by attacking him, but by asking way. Not by attacking him, but by asking him to join an informal alliance of him to join an informal alliance of him to join an informal alliance of mutual support that was being formed mutual support that was being formed mutual support that was being formed between Craas, Pompy, and Caesar. Cicero between Craas, Pompy, and Caesar. Cicero between Craas, Pompy, and Caesar. Cicero refused the invitation, correctly refused the invitation, correctly refused the invitation, correctly identifying the first triumvirate, as it identifying the first triumvirate, as it identifying the first triumvirate, as it came to be known, as a mortal enemy of came to be known, as a mortal enemy of came to be known, as a mortal enemy of the republic he so loved. Initially the the republic he so loved. Initially the the republic he so loved. Initially the threat came primarily from Pompy and threat came primarily from Pompy and threat came primarily from Pompy and Craas with Caesar seen as little more Craas with Caesar seen as little more Craas with Caesar seen as little more than a pawn in their game. But the first than a pawn in their game. But the first than a pawn in their game. But the first triumvirate would spell the end of the triumvirate would spell the end of the triumvirate would spell the end of the republic not for the power it gave Pompy republic not for the power it gave Pompy republic not for the power it gave Pompy and Craas but for the money and support and Craas but for the money and support and Craas but for the money and support that it gave Caesar in whom you may that it gave Caesar in whom you may that it gave Caesar in whom you may recall Sullah saw many amarius. There will probably be no episode next There will probably be no episode next week as I'm scheduled to fly to visit week as I'm scheduled to fly to visit week as I'm scheduled to fly to visit the history of Roman laws for what they the history of Roman laws for what they the history of Roman laws for what they call Christmas but what we all know is call Christmas but what we all know is call Christmas but what we all know is the feast of the unconquered sun.

the feast of the unconquered sun. the feast of the unconquered sun. However, as I sit here, Portland has However, as I sit here, Portland has However, as I sit here, Portland has been crippled by severe weather. So, who been crippled by severe weather. So, who been crippled by severe weather. So, who knows if I'll ever actually make it out knows if I'll ever actually make it out knows if I'll ever actually make it out of town. So, if there's no episode, of town. So, if there's no episode, of town. So, if there's no episode, you've been warned. And if there is, you've been warned. And if there is, you've been warned. And if there is, happy Saturnia. happy Saturnia. happy Saturnia. [Music]