More on Rome

Bay of Naples was rich in soil, and had good grain. Wealthy residence had a lot of luxury on the bay. Plebeians had a lot of trouble. Optimares are the aristocratic senators. The Populares are the common people. The Gracchi brothers killing marked the first political killing and a very ominous sign. Marius and Sulla put down the rebellions going on. Both Marius and Sulla have standing armies loyal to them. The first Civil War grew annoyed at each other, so Sulla marches on Rome and pushes Marius out of Rome. He doesn't take power, but the idea that generals could lead their armies against Rome.

Julius Caesar: Born in 100 B.C. Wanted to bring back power and run for the highest office. Men running for the Consulship needed support from the patrician allies. Instead of going to the Patricians, Caesar goes to the people and wins the consulship. The senate doesn't like Caesar, so they make it bad for him. After the consul you go to be a governor. Caesar is sent to Gaul. Gaul is the middle of nowhere. He conquers all of Gaul and to Britain. The senators are a little nervous. Caesar crosses the River Rubicon and says "the dye is cast" and marches his troups down and to Rome. Rome goes behind Pompey. Caesar chases Pompey and have a decisive battle at Pharsalus. He and Mark Antony defeat them and the Popularae kill themselves. Pompey is met by a assinator in Egypt and his head is cut off. When Caesar comes he is angry and says it is disrespectful. (Shows respect that generals have for eachother) Caesar stays and has an affair with Cleopatra. She is last in line for the thrown. Caesar comes back to Italy and is met with open arms and is given more and more power.