TLDR - Julius Caesar

Julius Caesar, a towering figure in world history, was born on July 12, 100 BC, into the patrician Julii family in Rome. Despite his noble lineage, Caesar's family lacked significant wealth or influence during his childhood. Growing up in the midst of political instability in the Roman Republic profoundly shaped his ambitions and drive for power.

The Temple of Hercules Victor is Rome's oldest surviving marble building, built during Roman Republic (2nd century BCE) and is dedicated to Hercules.

At 16 years old in 84 BC, Caesar lost his father (reason still unknown today), leaving him as the head of his household. Around this period, he married Cornelia, the daughter of a prominent populist politician. This alliance angered the Roman dictator Sulla, who demanded Caesar divorce her, as she was connected to Sulla's political enemies. Caesar defied the order, risking his life in doing so, and fled Rome (he was around 18 years old). This bold act of defiance demonstrated Caesar's determination from a young age.

Following Sulla’s death, Caesar (now 22 years old) returned to Rome to launch his political and military career. He gained experience as a military officer in Asia Minor and Cilicia, where his bravery earned him recognition. In his early 30s, Caesar began ascending the Roman political ranks. He held the office of quaestor in 69 BC, became aedile in 65 BC, and was elected pontifex maximus in 63 BC. His ability to engage with the public and his extravagant public games boosted his popularity significantly during his time as aedile.

Table of the major ranks (except 7) in the Roman political structure during the late Republic period. Read picture description for more details

In 60 BCE, Caesar formed the First Triumvirate, a powerful but unofficial political alliance with Pompey and Crassus, two of Rome’s most influential figures. This partnership propelled Caesar further in Roman politics, leading to his election as consul in 59 BC. The following year, he was appointed governor of Gaul (modern-day France and Belgium). Over the next nine years, he waged the Gallic Wars, where he expanded Roman territory significantly and gained fame as a brilliant military leader. His conquest of Gaul made him not only wealthy but also a beloved figure among his troops.

Tensions mounted between Caesar and Pompey after the death of Crassus in 53 BC. With Caesar’s power increasing, the Roman Senate, led by Pompey, ordered him to disband his army and return to Rome. In 49 BC, Caesar made his legendary decision to cross the Rubicon River with his army, initiating a civil war that would change Roman history forever. This bold move marked a point of no return for Caesar and Rome.

Caesar swiftly defeated Pompey’s forces and, by 46 BC, he became the uncontested ruler of Rome. In 44 BC, the Senate named him dictator for life, during which he enacted numerous reforms, including the introduction of the Julian calendar, the expansion of citizenship, and debt relief. However, his increasing power alarmed many senators, who feared that he was turning Rome into a monarchy.

The difference between before and after Julian Calendar. That's right, the names of the months in the modern calendar are derived from the Roman calendar (during the Roman Republic and Roman Empire)

The names of the months in the Roman calendar were primarily influenced by Roman traditions, religion, and notable figures.

On March 15, 44 BC, the Ides of March, a group of senators, including his friend Brutus, assassinated Caesar during a Senate meeting. His death plunged Rome into further turmoil, leading to the eventual rise of his adopted heir, Octavian (later known as Augustus), who transformed the Roman Republic into the Roman Empire.