Gaius Julius Caesar

Julius Caesar was a Roman general and statesman who played a critical role in the events that led to the demise of the Roman Republic and the rise of the Roman Empire.

Early Life and Rise to Power

• 100 BC: Born in Rome into a prestigious but relatively impoverished patrician family.
• 84 BC: Appointed High Priest of Jupiter (Flamen Dialis) by his uncle-in-law, Gaius Marius.

Ascent to Power

• 63 BC: Elected Pontifex Maximus (High Priest of Rome), a position he held for life.
• 60 BC: Formed the First Triumvirate, an informal political alliance with the wealthy Marcus Licinius Crassus and the general Pompey.
• 59 BC: Served his first term as Consul, Rome’s highest political office.

Assassination

• 44 BC: Caesar was assassinated in the Theatre of Pompey by a group of rebellious senators on the Ides of March.