The Pillars: Jerusalem, Athens, and the Western Mind The Late Roman Republic: Its Troubles and Tribulations
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Feb 2, 2025 Explore the dramatic decline of the Roman Republic through pivotal events and figures. Discover how the Gracchi brothers' controversial land reforms set the stage for upheaval. Dive into the fierce rivalry between Marius and Sulla, leading to the first civil war. Witness the rise of powerful triads, including Crassus, Pompey, and Caesar. Unpack Caesar's conquests and the contentious politics surrounding his rise. Finally, navigate the complexities of alliances, assassinations, and the transition to empire.
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Army Loyalty Shifted To Generals
- Marius professionalized the Roman army and recruited the landless, making soldiers loyal to generals rather than the state.
- This created a cycle: rewards for conquest, pressure to expand, and political power tied to military command.
Citizenship Expanded After The Social War
- The Social War forced Rome to extend citizenship across Italy, more than doubling the citizenry.
- Granting rights stabilized loyalty but strained republican voting logistics and governance.
Sulla's Violent Reordering Of Power
- Sulla marched on Rome, seized power, and then carried out proscriptions and land confiscations to reward supporters.
- He expanded the Senate, weakened tribunes, and strengthened written law to cement elite dominance.
