1
Q
patrician
A
families whose ancestry could be traced to the early days of Rome when they formed a ruling aristocratic group from whom Romulus was said to have chosen the first senators
first level of cursus honorum
2
Q
plebian
A
Roman citizens who were not patrician, originally a ‘lower’ order, gained significant wealth and nobility from ‘conflict of the orders’ from 5th to 3rd centuries BC
first level of cursus honorum
3
Q
nobiles
A
senatorial families distinguished by the inclusion of a consul in their ancestry
formed an oligarchy
4
Q
equites
A
emerged from Rome’s expansion across the Med
took advantage of commercial opportunities
took up the vacancy that the aristocracy left by being unable to participate in trade
new class of businessmen
5
Q
principate
A
the new monarchy established by Augustus in the late first century BC marking the end of the imperial period
6
Q
novus homo
A
‘new man’
managed to become consul or senator with no consulship or senators in his lineage
7
Q
res publica
A
‘public affairs’
Republican constitution that replaced the monarchy
consisted of the SPQR- senate and people, including the cursus honorum
8
Q
steps of the cursus honorum
A
- plebian or patrician
- quaestor/tribune
- curule aedile/plebian aedile
- praetor/ propraetor
- consul/proconsul/censor
- dictator
9
Q
cursus honorum define
A
hierarchy within the senate
hybrid of monarchy, oligarchy and democracy
each rung ensured that top politicians would have deep political understanding
10
Q
consul
A
2 at once
ultimate decision-making power
invested with imperium
11
Q
imperium
A
given to consul
ultimate decision-making power
command in war
interpretation of law (and later praetor was given this)
12
Q
election of consuls
A
elected annually
elected by Roman citizens
13
Q
praetor
A
oversaw law courts and judicial matters
5th step on cursus honorum
14
Q
senate
A
advisory body for the consuls
included all sections of the cursus honorum
15
Q
aediles
A
responsible for public: food and water, festivals, building
step 3 on cursus honorum
16
Q
quaestor
A
state treasury and financial administration
step 2 on the cursus honorum
17
Q
tribunes of the plebs
A
10 elected annually by tribal assembly
outside of the cursus honorum
10 plebians
acted as a check on the senate and the cursus honorum
there to protect and care for plebians
could summon and attend meetings of the senate
bodies sacrosanct so safe from personal danger
could veto decrees of the senate and tribunes
18
Q
tribal assembly
A
elect 10 tribunes of the plebs annually
tribune, consul or praetor could call
body of citizens in 35 tribes
gather outside Campus Martius
19
Q
censors
A
elected every 5 years
work for 18 months
carried out a census
included a review of the senatorial roll
could expel consuls
20
Q
centuriate assembly
A
elect censors every 5 years
gather outside Campus Martius
each citizen put in 1 of 193 centuries, determined by wealth
richer centuries had less members and voted first so their votes counted more
elected those who wielded imperium
could only be called by the ones they elect- consul, praetor and censor
21
Q
dictator
A
appointed for 6 months in times of crisis
imperium of both consuls
appointed by consuls
suggested by senate
22
Q
government of provinces
A
done by governers
selected from proconsuls and propraetors
so they were praetor or consul the previous year
main duty was to defend the peace
and ensure tax was collected safely
23
Q
populares
A
promote measures that appeal to the general population
noble senatorial families
aimed to gain power by appealing to the people
24
Q
optimates
A
also boni
main goal was to protect the status of the senators
work in the interst of the incumbent oligarchy
25
boni
optimates
'good men'
considered to be ideal statesmen
well-educated, tradition, patriotic and experienced
26
Tiberius Gracchus career
164-133 BC
popularis- people over senate
tribune of the plebs in 133 BC
illustrious family
killed by optimates sympathsiers
27
Gaius Gracchus
brother of Tiberius
continued his brothers political reform
28
Land Bill of Tiberius Gracchus
133
- redistribution of public land to those who lost their farms during military service
- bypassed the senate and took to the assembly of the people
- vetoed- TG suggested the vetoer be dismissed- success
- proposal passed to senate
- Tiberius and 300 supporters beaten to death and thrown in Tiber at night by senators and optimates
- turning point in stability
29
patron
a man of significant social standing
offers resources to clients
30
client
citizen who were bound by loyalty
supports him in all his public interests- elections
31
military leaders as patrons
- Marius removed financial criteria for army in 107
- poor soldiers wanted land after conquest
- fought for personal ambition, not state
32
amicita
horizontal relationships
system of family alliances established to consolidate success
- marriages, adoption of grown heirs, political, legal, financial
- perpetuated oligarchy
33
Senators numbers
300 in the republic
around 600 during Sulla
34
inimicita
opposite to amicitia
individual agreements lead to family hostility
35
SPQR
senatus populusque Romanus
36
mos maiorum
roman moral code
- fides
- pietas, religio, cultus
- disciplina
- gravitas
-virtus
- dignitas- prestige
37
Marius
* novus homo- populares
* consul
* shifted loyalty from the Senate to individual generals through opening military to poor in 107
* 3x consul- popularity and the political instability
* military leader- undermines senate
* rivalry with Sulla
38
Sulla key actions
*optimate
*distinguished in Jugurthine and Social wars- military prestige to get power
* 88 marched on Rome- precedent
○ due to command over Mithridates
being transferred to rival Marius- dignitas
* 82-79 dictator- proscription and institutional reforms strengthening senate, against tribunes
*abdicated 79
39
Sulla's impact on TLR
* Marched on Rome with an army- illegal, enemy of the state, sets a precedent - later followed by Julius Caesar
* Terrified senate vote to make him dictator, Roman Forum proscriptions and took property
* Proscriptions- terror in political classes, killed up to 9,000 people, 1,500 were equestrians
40
Sulla's reforms
- increased senate to 600
- Stricter controls on provincial governments and fixed commands to
- Gives control of courts to senate- makes it senators ONLY not equestrian
- makes the tribunate less powerful- restricting their ability to propose legislation and barring them from holding further offices
- slowed speed of rises to power
-Reformed legislative procedures to require Senate approval for any laws proposed by the assemblies
- very optimate
41
Lepidus
- elected as consul in 78
- restored tribunate, undoing Sullan reform
- returned confiscated land to original owners
- popularis- reducing power to the senate caused tensions
42
Lepidus's uprising
- fell out w other consul Catulus
- marched on Rome in 77
- senate then passed the senatus consltum ultimum- imperium for consuls
- giving the consuls the power to deal with the uprising- precedent for Pompey - military
43
Sertorius
- 76-73 BC Sertorius resisted Romans in Spain
- knowledge of the terrain, small surprise attacks, Iberian tribes
- Metellus and Pompey sent to suppress- fail
-alliance with Mithridates
- assassinated by his own commanders in 73
- vulnerability of Rome, dissent in provinces due to their distance from Rome- defeated POMPEY
44
Pompey Piracy
- 74- 67, a special command to Marcus Antonius Med Pirates- fail
- extensive command given to Pompey under the Lex Gabinia- success
- increased his prestige and Rome's influence in the Med
45
Pompey 66 law
granting Pompey imperium against Mithridates
lex Manilia
46
Pompey 67 law
granting Pompey imperium against the pirates
lex Gabinia
47
Cicero's Quaestorship
75
* He began his campaign in 77 BC to be the first level of political power, quaestor
* marriage to Terentia increased support due to her family, she was supportive and her dowry made him richer
* elected in suo anno- 30
- western Sicily
- supportive of the farmers despite the shortage of grain in Rome- he supported the people and was popular- create a support base to provide for his lack of family ties
- gained support and networking by the powerful men in Sicily: Marcelli family as patrons of Sicily, prominent figures like Pompey and Hortensius, businessmen and equestrians
48
Cicero's quaestorship year and location
75,
Lilybaeum, Sicily
49
Mithridates
- king of Pontus from 120-63
- resisted Romans, 3 wars
- Cotta and Lucullus, Pompey and Crassus consuls sent in 74 BC to handle
- instability and doubt
- importance of military
50
Verres' governorship
73-71
Sicily
- extortion and corruption from governors
- cancelled inheritances, robbed farmers, and left cities undefended
51
Revolt of Spartacus
- defeated in 71 by Crassus
- Pompey mopped up fleeing rebels and took credit
52
Impact of Spartacus on Pompey's power
- Pompey wrongly claimed half of the credit
- amicitia w Crassus, pooling their wealth and armies
- coerced senate to allow them to run for consulship in 70 BC
- Pompey- triumph
- Crassus- Ovation
- Pompey was too young to be consul- undid Sulla's reform
53
Cicero's prosecution of Verres
- 70
- extortion court
- pivotal for Cicero, enhancing his reputation as a formidable orator
- advocate for justice
- led Verres to go into voluntary exile, showcasing that the legal system could still address corruption
54
in verrem senate quote
"a belief has become established that is...destructive for the republic"
55
Crassus and Pompey's consulship
- 70
- * They restored the power of the tribunate after Sulla reduced it
* They formed amicitia together, pooling their wealth and armies, coercing senate into allowing them to run for consulship in 70 BC
- They also undid Sulla's lex annalis because (Crassus was old enough) but Pompey was too young to be consul, and was not even a member of the senate
56
The Trial of Verres facts
70
Gaius Verres
- Hortensius as the defense lawyer
- alleged extortion of 400,000 sesterces from Sicily -during consulship 73-71
- extortion court
- advised by Hortensius to flee- won by Cicero
- nobile
57
main focuses of In Verrem
- put the responsibility on the jury
- show the perversion of justice attempted by Verres and his friends
- detail the crimes he committed before governorship
- how Cicero paints himself
58
put the responsibility on the jury points
- idea of crisis for senators
- hatred of the senators
- corruption and bribery
59
Cicero facts
novus homo
quaestor in Sicily
Sicilian embassies to Rome to as for him as they respect him
running for aedile
60
judge
Manius Glabrio
senator because Sulla made the judiciary just senators
61
Verres crowd context
- Roman permanent extortion court
- Pompey's success festival in Rome
- fame of Hortensius and Verres
62
Verres's delaying context
- court was inhospitable to the defense
- tried to place another similar prosecution on the docket
- wanted to draw it out to festival season- new court with Metellus in charge
63
apostrophe
addressing someone not present
64
asyndeton
omission of conjunctions
65
Sulla dies year
79
66
Sulla's death impacts
- power vacuum- left room for new leaders to emerge, such as Pompey, Crassus
- precedent for dictatorship as a tool for political control
67
Cicero's aedileship year and 2 activities
69
- Legal Defense of Marcus Fonteius: During his aedileship, Cicero defended Marcus Fonteius, a senator accused of extortion during his governorship in Cisalpine Gaul helped Cicero build a network of support among both the equites and the senatorial class
- Concordia Ordinum: Cicero's actions during his aedileship reflected his political ideal of concordia ordinum, the agreement between the senatorial and equestrian orders
- pragmatic, calculated
68
Caesar's quaestorship year and location
69
Spain
- Service in Spain: Caesar served as quaestor in Hispania Ulterior (Further Spain), where he gained valuable administrative and military experience.
- his first step in the cursus honorum, the sequence of public offices held by aspiring politicians in Rome
69
Cato as military tribune
- ran for office in 68
- military tribune in Macedon in 67
- famed for eating equal food, work and quarters with men
- led from the front
- loyal legion
70
Pompey imperium against the pirates year, where why is it needed for him
67
- lex gabinia
- piracy was a significant threat to Rome's grain supply and trade routes.
- granted Pompey imperium infinitum over the entire Mediterranean and coastal areas up to 50 miles inland. This unprecedented level of authority allowed him to swiftly and effectively eliminate the pirate threat within three months.
- The success of the Lex Gabinia bolstered Pompey's popularity and demonstrated the effectiveness of granting extraordinary powers to military leaders, setting a precedent for future expansions of power.
71
lex Manilia granting Pompey imperium against Mithridates year
66
- transferred the command of the war against Mithridates VI of Pontus from Lucullus to Pompey
- gave Pompey control over the Eastern campaigns, further extending his military and political influence.
- By granting Pompey command in the East, the law cemented his position as Rome's foremost military leader
- continued the trend of concentrating power in the hands of a single individual, contributing to the erosion of traditional Republican checks and balances
72
Ciceros speech supporting Pompey's imperium against Mithridates year
- Pro Lege Manilia speech for him in 66
- Cicero gained support of Pompey
73
Caesar's aedileship year
65
- Lavish Games and Public Works. These events were not only a means of entertaining the Roman populace but also a way to gain popular support and increase his political influence.
- Debt and Popularity: The lavish expenditure on games put Caesar into significant debt. However, this investment paid off politically, as it helped him gain favor with the people and increased his visibility and popularity in Rome.
- Political Alliances and Influence: Caesar's aedileship was where he began forming crucial political alliances. His actions during this time helped solidify his position within the populares faction, setting the stage for his future political and military successes.
74
Cato
- Born in 95 BC into a noble plebeian family
- He was known for his austere and principled lifestyle, reminiscent of his great-grandfather, Cato the Elder.
- served as quaestor, tribune, and praetor
- known for his unwavering commitment to the traditional Roman values and the preservation of the Republic. His stance often put him at odds with more populist figures like Julius Caesar.
- Stoicism: He was known for his integrity and refusal to engage in bribery, a common practice in Roman elections. His Stoic beliefs also influenced his leadership style, as he lived modestly and shared hardships with his soldiers.
- Conflict with Caesar: Cato was a staunch opponent of Julius Caesar, viewing him as a threat to the Republic. He opposed Caesar's policies and actions, including his quest for power and his role in the First Triumvirate with Pompey and Crassus.
75
Stoicism
- Zeno philosopher- 3rd century BC
- advocation of knowledge, free-will and moral rectitude
- Cato the Elder- austere
76
Cato's quaestorship year
64
- increasingly powerful to voice the opinions of powerful optimates
- Financial Oversight: responsible for overseeing financial matters, including the treasury and public finances. He was known for his meticulous and honest management, which further enhanced his reputation for integrity.
- Conservative Values: Cato used his position to uphold traditional Roman values and the authority of the Senate.
- Political Influence: Although Cato's quaestorship was just one step in his political career, it laid the groundwork for his future influence in Roman politics. His reputation for honesty and adherence to Stoic values helped him gain respect and credibility among his peers.
77
Cicero's consulship year
| connections, speech, opposed bill
63
- Used his friend Atticus's connections with patricians, Used his brother Quintus pamphlet advice to not look populares
- Main tactic to split **Catiline** from his traditional supporters in the senate: Uses a speech called** in toga candida-** makes him sound like a radical, pins the first Catiline conspiracy on him
- Defends the optimate Piso, meaning he is elected consul in suo anno 63 BC
- As consul in 63 BC, Cicero opposed the Lex Agraria.
78
Caesar Pontifex maximus year
63
- Caesar had intentions to get out of the shadow of Crassus and Pompey in this year
- In massive debt to finance campaign- All or nothing attitude about this election
- Highest elected religious official
- Served for life
- Watchdog of morality over Roman people and politicians- Unilateral power over fines if someone had violated a religious or cultural custom
79
lex agraria of Rullus year
| populares or optimate? therefore who defended it?
63
- agrarian reform bill aimed at redistributing public land to Roman citizens
-Land Distribution: The bill sought to address the issue of landlessness among Roman citizens by redistributing public lands, particularly in Italy. The aim was to provide land to the urban poor and veterans, addressing social and economic inequalities.
- Decemviri: establishment of a commission of ten men (decemviri) who would have extensive powers to implement the land redistribution. commissioners were to be elected and would hold their positions for five years
- Funding and Authority: decemviri would have the authority to sell other public lands and use the proceeds to fund the redistribution process. They were also empowered to negotiate treaties and manage colonies, giving them considerable political and economic power.
- Opposition by Cicero: As consul in 63 BC, Cicero opposed the Lex Agraria. He criticized it in a series of speeches, arguing that it would concentrate too much power in the hands of the decemviri, undermine the authority of the Senate, and potentially lead to corruption and abuse.
- Political Context: The bill was part of the populares agenda, aiming to gain support from the lower classes. However, it faced resistance from the optimates, who viewed it as a threat to their interests and the traditional power structures of the Republic.
80
Pro Rabirio year
63
- Trial of Rabirius by Labienus
- Trial dates back to 100 BC
- tribune Saturninius made lots of laws attacking the senate
- senate passes SCU Senatus Consultum Ultimum making it legal to kill Saturninius,
- Rabirius decides to hunt him down and succeeds to kill him- Rabirius seen as a hero
- Old senator Gaius Rabirius prosecuted from a crime 37 years earlier by Titus Labienus- questioned senate's powers as 'ultimate decree'- power for martial law
- Wanted to show that Senatus Consultum Ultimum was illegal- Thus show that Pompey's warfare was illegal
- Judged by Caesar and Caesar's cousin- before the people, on the Campus Martius- crucifixion awaited him
- Case dropped before verdict passed Because praetor Metellus recalled ancient method of halting legal proceedings- red flag on Janiculum hill lowered so public order stopped
-This was a populist attack on the idea of the ultimate decree
- Cicero successfully defends Pompey
81
Trial of Murena year
63
- Defenders: Murena was defended by Cicero, current consul, a Crassus.
- Cicero delivered a speech, "Pro Murena,"
- Cicero's Argument: Cicero argued that Murena's election should be upheld to maintain stability during Catilinarian Conspiracy. need for experienced leadership to counteract the threat posed by Catiline and his followers.
- Outcome: Murena was acquitted, allowing him to take up the consulship. pragmatic decision by the jury, influenced by Cicero's rhetoric and the desire to ensure continuity and stability in the Roman government during a period of crisis.
- accused of bribery by cato
82
Catilinarian conspiracy
63
- To overthrow the consulship of Cicero and Hybrida
- information came from Fulvia, Curios' mistress
- Curios was a friend of Catiline
- Catiline failed to be elected consul in 64 when Cicero was successful
- fellow conspirators lentulus and cethegus
- Cicero Used intelligence and informants to uncover the plot and Delivered four Catilinarian Orations
- Cat killed in 62 at Roman troops at Pistoria
- Cicero- Catulus hailed him pater patriae- father of the country
83
The Role of the Allobroges Cataline
- Envoys from the Gallic tribe of the Allobroges were in Rome
- Originally in the city to complain about provincial oppression
- The conspirators approached them to seek military support
- The Allobroges betrayed the plot and gave evidence to Cicero
84
Catiline Flees Rome
After Cicero’s oration, Catiline fled Rome
Traveled to Etruria to join his armed supporters
Left behind key conspirators to carry out urban violence and arson
85
Consequences of Catiline cons. for the conspirators
- Conspirators taken to Cicero’s house, then to Senate in guarded Temple of Concord.
- Cicero showed respect to Lentulus, leading him by hand; others were guarded.
- News of attempts to free Lentulus and Cethegus caused panic.
- increased calls for swift justice
- Julius Caesar suggested life imprisonment; Cato the Younger pushed for execution.
- Cicero supported Cato, leading to Senate voting for execution without trial.
86
Bona Dea scandal
62
- religious festival held annually in December, dedicated to the goddess Bona Dea, and was exclusively attended by women- men were strictly prohibited from participating or even being present
- held at Caesar's wife
- Clodius, in love with Caesar’s wife or curious about the rites, disguised himself as a lute girl to attend.
- discovered by Caesar’s mother, caught hiding in a maid’s room- sacrilege.
87
who took sides Bona Dea
A special investigative board was formed; Clodius and his allies lobbied the Senate.
Cato and Consul Marcus Valerius Messalla supported punitive action; Clodius and Piso opposed it using intimidation.
At trial, Cicero destroyed Clodius’s alibi with Cato’s support.
Clodius avoided conviction through bribery, angering Cato, who called for a bribery investigation. This alienated the equestrians and cost Cato support.
- Political Rivalries: The incident intensified the animosity between Clodius and Cicero, as Cicero had provided evidence against Clodius. This enmity would later have significant political consequences, including Cicero's exile in 58 BC, orchestrated by Clodius during his tribunate.
88
The Bona Dea trial
| caesars wife, cicero, bribery
- damaged the reputations of Julius Caesar, whose wife Pompeia was implicated.
- Caesar divorce of Pompeia, "Caesar's wife must be above suspicion."
- Increased Tensions: acquittal of Clodius, despite clear evidence against him, highlighted the corruption and susceptibility to bribery within the Roman legal system.
- increased tensions between different political factions, particularly between Clodius and Cicero.
- Rise of Clodius: Despite the scandal, Clodius managed to enhance his political career. By being adopted into a plebeian family, with support from Caesar, he was able to become a tribune of the plebs. This position allowed him to pass popular legislation and wield significant influence in Rome.
- Cicero's involvement came when he provided testimony that contradicted Clodius's alibi
89
Cato's tribuneship year
62
- Motivation: Though an Optimate, Cato sought office due to family tradition, the desire for popular support, and the power of the tribunate (restored by Pompey and Crassus in 70 BC).
- Political Actions: Introduced a law to **reduce grain prices and doubled the number of people eligible for the corn dole**—balancing Optimate values with support for the urban poor.
Governance Approach**: Proposed the grain law to the Senate before the popular assemblies **to show proper procedure and the Senate’s concern for the poor.
90
Caesar's praetorship year
62
- step up on cursus honorum
- Bona Dea scandal- managed to distance himself from the controversy despite being pontifex maximus.
91
Pompey returns from the East year
62
- wanted to consolidate power- **secure land for his veterans and have the treaties he negotiated in the East ratified by the Senate.** These requests were **opposed by the optimates, particularly Cato,**
- His need for Senate approval and opposition from the optimates set the stage for future alliances, including the** formation of the First Triumvirate** with Caesar and Crassus in 60 BC.
- *Cicero, who admired Pompey, sought to form an alliance with him.* This desire was reflected in his letters, where he flattered Pompey and expressed a wish to work closely with him, indicating the strategic importance of Pompey’s support.
92
Trial of Clodius year
61
- Bona Dea scandal of 62 BC, where Clodius was accused of sacrilege.
- Despite strong evidence against him, including testimony from Cicero, Clodius was acquitted, largely due to bribery, reportedly financed by Crassus.
- This trial highlighted the corruption in the Roman legal system and intensified the rivalry between Clodius and Cicero.
93
Caesar's governorship year and location
61, Further Spain
- After completing his praetorship, Caesar was appointed as governor of Further Spain.
- allowed him to gain military experience and wealth.
- Caesar notably cleared the region of bandits and initiated several reforms, earning military distinction and the loyalty of his troops.
- The wealth he accumulated in Spain helped him pay off debts and bolster his political standing upon his return to Rome.
94
Caesar returns from Spain year
60
- allowed to form The Triumvirate was an agreement to support each other's interests: Caesar wanted the consulship, Pompey sought land for his veterans, and Crassus aimed for financial relief for tax farmers in Asia.
95
First triumvirate is formed year
60
- informal political alliance known as the First Triumvirate. This alliance was established to counter the hostility they faced from the optimates in the Senate.
- Each member had specific political goals: Caesar sought the consulship, Pompey wanted land for his veterans and ratification of his eastern settlements, and Crassus aimed to secure a rebate for tax farmers in Asia.
96
Cato's actions in 60
- passes 2 decrees to deal with excessive bribery
97
Caesar's consulship year
59
- shared position with Bibulus, son in law of Cato- optimate
- took land for veterans to senate- Cato rejected -> took to assembly- ratified
- Pompey's army threatened anyone who opposed the bill
- Bibulus fled to watch the skies as augur
- introduced the Campanian law
- benefitted Crassus by adjusting an agreement to collect tax in Asia- rebate of 1/3 agreed
98
Campanian law
59
- by Caesar
- split Campania into 20,000 pieces
- uprooting rural peasantry- symbolic gesture of the power of army and importance of urban populace
99
Caesars laws for provincials
- legislation restricts the exploitation by Roman governors - strict accounting and gifts restricted
- bitterness from optimates
100
Pompey marries Julia, Caesar's daughter year
59
- loyalty and reduce tensions between Caesar and Pompey
- valuable connection to Pompey's military prestige and influence
101
Clodius adopted into plebian family year
59
- Clodius became eligible to run for the office of tribune of the plebs, allowed him to introduce and veto legislation, representing the interests of the common people.
- Support for the Triumvirate: Caesar, in his role as pontifex maximus, facilitated Clodius' adoption to secure Clodius' support for the First Triumvirate. This was strategically beneficial
- Clodius could help protect the triumvirs' interests and deflect criticism, especially in Caesar's absence while he was in Gaul.
- exile Cicero and send Cato away from Rome, removing two significant opponents of the Triumvirate. This strengthened the Triumvirate's hold on Roman politics
- caesar was pontifex maximus and Pompey was augur- allowed this as Caesar was in Gaul and wanted someone to protect his legacy
102
Caesar granted imperium to pacify Gaul and goes to Gaul year
58
- transalpine Gaul
- 3 legions
- left Pompey in Rome to protect the triumvirate
- Clodius to reinforce the legacy of his consulship as tribune
- made anxious due to Clodius's personal ambition bein
103
Clodius's tribuneship year
58
- meant by Pompey and Caesar to deflect allegations of the illegality of Caesar's consulship due to the lack of involvement of Bibulus
- removed Cicero and Cato- 2 most hostile people to the establishment of triumvirate power
- lots of populist legislation
104
Clodius's legislation
- free corn dole- grain shortage
- repeal of Cicero's law forbidding trade guilds and other associations
- allowed him to mastermind the creation of gangs of supporters which he used to intimidate potential critics
105
Threat of Clodius's tribuneship
- personal ambition
- Pompey had already heard rumours of an assassination in 58 and was then attacked by Clodius's gangs- retired from public life in 58
- Pompey had to rally his own gangs to be safe- gang-warfare on the streets of Rome
106
Cicero is exiled year
58
- action of Clodius as tribune
- Clodius introduced a law that retroactively declared anyone who had executed Roman citizens without trial to be a criminal
- This law was aimed directly at Cicero because of his role in the execution of the Catilinarian conspirators in 63 BC without a trial
107
Cato is sent to annex Cyprus year
58
- achieved by Clodius
- able to send Cato away under the pretense of the official tate duty of annexing Cyprus
108
Cicero's return from exile year
57
- returned from exile due to the efforts of Pompey and his supporters
- In 57 BC, after Clodius' tribuneship ended, the political climate shifted in Cicero's favor
- Eight of the ten new tribunes were supporters of Pompey, as was one of the new consuls.
- Pompey actively campaigned for Cicero's recall, despite Rome being plagued by violence orchestrated by Clodius.
- Pompey used his influence, along with supportive tribunes Publius Sestius and Titus Annius Milo, to secure a senate meeting protected by guards to vote on Cicero's recall.
- The vote passed almost unanimously, with only Clodius opposing it.
- Subsequently, the centuriate assembly, under Pompey's protection, ratified the decision. Cicero's exile was thus revoked, and he returned to Rome to a grand welcome.
109
Pompey five years imperium to stabilise corn supply to Rome year
57
- significant issues with food shortages due to disruptions in supply and Clodius's free corn
- senate trusted him due to his success with the pirates
- reliance on strong military leaders like Pompey to manage crucial economic and logistical issues- political power
- solidified Pompey's position control
110
gang warfare and rioting in Rome year
57
- Clodius used gangs to intimidate critics
- Pompey was intimidated due to an attack so had his own gangs
- Milo decided he needed to fight fire with fire- rallied supporters
* armed mercenaries
* whenever Clodius started, he shot back at him
111
Reasons Caesar felt threatened in 56
- antagonistic voices were worried about his success in Gaul
- therefore, people were talking more about the illegality of his actions as consul
- street violence from Pompey and Clodius
- Pompey's intimidation
- Clodius's rise to power
112
the conference at Luca year and month
April 56
- Arranged by Caesar to re establish their alliance, and creating an arrangement that demonstrated to all the position their renewed strength
- Caesar was allocated imperium for a further five years in goal, Crassus the consulship for 55, and Pompey was granted the right to hold military command over Spain in abstentia, ruling through his legates- he was to stay in Rome looking after the interests of the triumvirate
- The triumvirate was in a very strong position at this point
113
Cato returns to Rome year
56
- returned after completing his mission in Cyprus, where he was sent to annex the territory as part of Rome's province of Cilicia by clodius
- His absence was strategy to diminish influence, as he was an opponent of the First Triumvirate
- Cato's return- re-emergence of conservative opposition to the Triumvirate's power.
114
Second consulship of Pompey and Crassus year
55
- result of renewed alliance from Conference at Luca in 56 BC- solidified power of Triumvirate, allowing them to advance their agendas
- Caesar was given a further five-year command in Gaul, Crassus received a five-year command in Syria, and Pompey was granted command over Spain, which he could govern in absentia through his legates while remaining in Rome to manage the Triumvirate's interests.
- arrangement demonstrated their consolidated power
115
Caesar given a further 5 year command in Gaul year
55
- By remaining in command in Gaul, Caesar was able to evade his political rivals in Rome who might have sought to prosecute him for actions taken during his consulship in 59 BC.
- The imperium granted him legal immunity, as it was difficult to prosecute a commander actively engaged in a military campaign.
116
Pompey given 5 year command of Spain in abstentia year
55
- By staying in Rome, Pompey could oversee the interests of the Triumvirate and maintain his influence over Roman politics
117
Crassus given 5 year command in Syria year
55
- Crassus sought military glory to match the achievements of his fellow triumvirs, Pompey and Caesar. A command in Syria provided him the opportunity to pursue a campaign against the Parthian Empire, which promised both prestige and wealth.
- Control over Syria, a wealthy province, offered potential for further economic gain
118
Death of Julia Year
54
- Caesar's daughter, Pompey's beloved wife
- Died in childbirth along with her baby
- Weakened formal ties between the two men
119
Caesar in Gaul and crosses over to Britain year
54
- demonstrated Rome's reach and ambition, enhancing Caesar's reputation as a military leader.
- Political Power: The success in Gaul strengthened Caesar's political position. The wealth and spoils from these campaigns allowed him to reward his soldiers and supporters, solidifying their loyalty and increasing his influence in Roman politics.
- Prelude to Civil War: The campaigns set the stage for future conflicts. Caesar's growing power and military successes made him a threat to the Senate and to Pompey, contributing to the tensions that eventually led to the Civil War in 49 BC.
120
Cato's praetorship year
54
- Stoic Principles
- further solidified his standing as a leading figure among the optimates, who sought to preserve the traditional power structures of the Republic.
- Resistance to Popularis Measures: During his praetorship, Cato was involved in resisting the initiatives of populares like Julius Caesar, who sought reforms that threatened the power of the Senate and the optimates.
121
Continued Riots in Rome, no consul elected year
| death
53- no offices filled in 52
- reflected the deep political divisions and chaos within Rome
- This instability was exacerbated by the death of Crassus at Carrhae, which weakened the First Triumvirate and left a power vacuum.
- gangs destabilised res publica
122
Pompey's move to the optimates
53 bc
- married daughter of conservative metellus- bond with senatorial elite- amicitia
- senate, led by cato, looked to elect Pompey for 52
- pompey chose new father in law for the consulship
- development in the relationship between Pompey and the Optimates
123
death of Crassus at Carrhae year
53
- End of the First Triumvirate
- tensions between Caesar and Pompey increased, ultimately leading to the Civil War
- Parthian Threat: defeat at Carrhae was military disaster for Rome and emboldened the Parthian Empire. vulnerabilities of Roman expansion and the challenges by Rome's eastern neighbors.
- His absence allowed the optimates, to gain more influence and push back against the populares and Caesar.
124
Clodius killed by Milo year
52
125
Caesar's alienation
- As a show of support Pompey had backed a law passed by all 10 tribunes to enable Caesar to be able to stand as a candidate for the console ship in abstentia
- This would allow him to stay under the protection of his proconsular imperium in goal until a smooth and instant transfer to another office
- When then posing a new law demanding the old candidates for office must canvas in person Pompey added a clause exempting Caesar
- However, when he secured the command of Spain for a further five years for himself, he did no such thing for Caesar in Gaul
- the triumvirate had clearly deteriorated, Pompey security and relationship with the elite in Rome was being consolidated with Caesar in Gaul
126
Caesar's campaign in Gaul ends
51
- triumph, extending the territory of the state and increasing revenue significantly
- Consul Metellus says that he should give up imperium -> allowing his enemies the opportunity to put him on trial for his laws in 59
- Caesar responds with Curio tribune 50 -> vetoed the proposal of a debate about Caesars removal
127
Pompey appointed sole consul to August year
52
- Political Instability: The year 52 BC was marked by significant political turmoil and violence in Rome. The murder of Clodius by Milo and the consequent riots highlighted the breakdown of order. The Senate's decision to appoint Pompey as sole consul was a response to this crisis, aimed at restoring stability.
- Extraordinary Measure: Appointing a sole consul was an unprecedented and unconstitutional step, reflecting the severity of the situation. It demonstrated the Senate's willingness to bypass traditional Republican norms in times of emergency.
- This appointment strengthened Pompey's position in Roman politics, giving him both military and political authority. It marked a shift in his alliances, as he moved closer to the optimates, who viewed him as a counterbalance to Caesar's growing power.
- set the stage for further tensions between Pompey and Caesar. The rivalry between these two leading figures would eventually lead to the outbreak of civil war in 49 BC.
128
Cato fails to become consul year
51
- Cato's staunch refusal to engage in the common practice of bribery during elections was a key factor in his failure. His commitment to Stoic principles and moral integrity often clashed with the political realities of the time, where bribery was commonplace and expected.
- Political Isolation: His uncompromising nature led to a lack of popular support. While his moral stance was respected, it did not translate into votes, as many were frustrated by his perceived aloofness and rigidity.
- Impact on the Optimates: Cato's failure to secure the consulship weakened the optimates, the conservative faction in the Senate opposed to the populares. As a leading figure of the optimates, his inability to gain a key political position limited their influence in a period of significant political upheaval.
- Wider Political Context: This event occurred during a time of great instability in Rome, with increasing tensions between key political figures like Caesar and Pompey. Cato's failure highlighted the challenges faced by traditionalists in adapting to the rapidly changing political environment of the Late Republic.
129
Cicero's governorship years and location
Cilicia, 51-50
- Demonstration of Principles: Cicero's governorship was an opportunity for him to put his ideals into practice. He governed with fairness and diplomacy, addressing debts and financial issues left by his predecessor. His approach was consistent with his beliefs in justice and the proper conduct of a Roman official.
- Military Success: Surprisingly, Cicero achieved military success during his governorship, pushing back hostile tribes and being hailed as imperator by his troops. This military accomplishment enhanced his reputation and demonstrated his capability in a role beyond the courtroom and Senate.
- Political Context: Cicero's time as governor coincided with a period of instability in Rome. The breakdown of the First Triumvirate and the increasing tension between Caesar and Pompey made his absence from Rome significant, as he could not influence events directly.
- Personal Ambivalence: Despite his achievements, Cicero was somewhat reluctant to leave Rome during such a politically tumultuous time. He felt he could be more useful in Rome, reflecting the tension between his duty as a provincial governor and his desire to influence politics at the heart of the Republic.
130
Curio's tribuneship year
50
- The matter that two of Caesar's armies had gone because of Pompey's trickery came to a head on the 1st of December 50 when curio put it to the Senate that both Pompey and Caesar should give up their imperium and armies
- A resounding move in favour of this 370 votes to 22 was vetoed
Elite group of optimates led by Cato refused to allow Caesar to walk free
- They asked Pompey to defend Rome and take a command of the Roman state armies not led by Caesar and he agreed
Caesar tried to negotiate with Rome
131
Curios tribuneship year
50
132
Curio's tribuneship relevance
- used his tribunician veto to block a senatorial move to end Caesar’s command and imperium early
- proposes on 1 dec that both Pomp. and Cae. lay down commands- senate votes majority in favour but Pompey, consul, Cato and the optimate minority block
133
Caesar crosses the rubicon into Italy
civil war
49
134
senate is evacuated from Rome to Greece
Cato and Cicero support Pompey
49
135
Caesar's second consulship starts year
48
136
Caesar's dictatorship length and year
48
11 days
137
Defeat of Pompey- where, when
48, August
Pharsalus
138
Death of Pompey, where, when
48
Egypt
139
Caesar's dictatorship in absence year
47
140
Caesar returns briefly to Italy then sails for North Africa to confront anti-Caesarians led by Cato
47
141
Suicide of Cato after defeat at Thapsus year
46
142
Caesar's dictatorship and third consulship
returns to Rome then leaves from spain to deal with anti-caesarian
46
143
- Last of Pompeians defeated by Caesar at Munda in Spain
45
144
- Cicero writes eulogy to Cato, Caesar writes anti-Cato
45
145
- Caesar's dictatorship and 4th consulship
45
146
- Caesar returns to Rome to great honours
45
147
44 events
- Caesar becomes dictator perpetuo and assumes 5th consulship
- assassination of Julius Caesar, 15 March, Ides of March
- Octavian named as heir and returns from Epirus
- Antony recieves command of Gaul
- Cicero starts to deliver the Philippics
148
- assassination of Julius Caesar, 15 March, Ides of March
44
149
- Octavian named as heir and returns from Epirus
44
150
- Antony recieves command of Gaul
44
151
- Caesar becomes dictator perpetuo and assumes 5th consulship
44
152
- Cicero starts to deliver the Philippics
44
153
43 events
- outbreak of civil war
- MA declared enemy of the state
- Siege of Mutina
- Deaths of the consuls Hirtus and Pansa
- Octavian occupies Rome and assumes consulship (August)
- Formation of the 2nd triumvirate- O, MA and L (November)
- Proscriptions
- Death of Cicero 7 dec
154
- outbreak of civil war
- MA declared enemy of the state
- Siege of Mutina
43
155
- Siege of Mutina
- Deaths of the consuls Hirtus and Pansa
43
156
- Octavian occupies Rome and assumes consulship (August)
43
157
- Formation of the 2nd triumvirate- O, MA and L (November)
43
158
- Proscriptions
- Death of Cicero 7 dec
43
159
Source for Background
160
Source for Cato
161
162
OCR Classical Civilisation A-Level
flashcards
Decks in class (23)
# Cards
-
Politics- Politics of the Late Republic141
-
WOTH Iliad Quotes and Summaries all books 1-24108
-
OCR Greek Art L6th EoY118
-
WOTH Crit 23 2422
-
POTLR162
-
69-4369
-
Parthenon15
-
Cato6
-
WOTH Aeneid quotes and book summaries89
-
POTLR Criticism18
-
Cicero's letters36
-
In Verrem Context39
-
Greek Art vases simple22
-
Greek Art Architectural Sculpture simple21
-
Greek art context and terminology20
-
WOTH terminology12
-
U6th books 1-11 women essay21
-
Caesar as Popularis and Dictator52
-
Cicero and the Res publica15
-
CATO- Pompey, Caesar and Cato, and Cato's political relationships32
-
POTLR 2160
-
WOTH Iliad 2108
-
Greek art 2118
