Julius Caesar

A rousing orator, brilliant general, and cunning politician, Julius Caesar was one of the dominant figures of Western civilization, paving the way for the Roman Empire .

Coming from a powerful family, he rose to a position of influence within the Roman establishment. After several years of service in the Senate, at age 40 Caesar formed a ruling alliance with Pompey and Marcus Licinius Crassus. He then conducted successful campaigns in the north that brought Gaul under Roman control. After the death of Crassus and the dissolution of the triumvirate, Caesar Fought Pompey in a struggle for supremacy. In 48 BC he was elected dictator of Rome , improving provincial administration, extending citizenships, alleviating Rome 's debt, and instituting the Julian calendar.

Despite his great talent and charisma, the autocratic Caesar was regarded as a threat to the Roman Republic , and in 44 BC he was assassinated by conspirators. His death opened the way for other would-be autocrats and actual hastened Rome 's transition into an empire ruled by family dynasties.   [UP]