Julius Caesar

Julius Caesar 44 BC

Q:When you were 15 your father died, did this help your political career?

A: Yes. My father expected me to hold a lowlyadministration position. When he died, that expectation died with him.

Q: How did you start your campaign to hold a high government position?

A: I joined the army. I advanced through the ranks and became a general. At this point I had political influence and loyal legions behind me.

Q: In 49 BC you crossed the Rubicon with your army, what was your thinking behind this?

A: I wished to hold a higher position in the Roman Empire. The Senate supported Pompey. It was a simple decision; either I had to defeat the Senate or Pompey.

Q: Eventually you did defeat Pompey for control of Rome didn’t you?

A: Yes, in 48 BC I defeated Pompey at the Battle of Pharsalus15 and won control of Rome.

Q: You recently became the first Roman dictator for life, how did you manage this?

A: This is what I have always wanted, a high position in Roman government. I had defeated Pompey and won control of Rome, it was only fitting that I should be the leader of this great empire. I “persuaded” the Senate to make me dictator for life.

Q: What does this mean for Rome?

A: Rome will now have a new system of ruling.