Class 5 W 09/17/25: The Fall of the Republic

Latifundia

Large-scale commercial farms in the Roman Republic, owned by wealthy landowners, that displaced small farmers.

Foreign Grain

Cheaper grain imports that decreased local agricultural production and self-sufficiency in Rome.

Marius's Reforms

General Gaius Marius's creation of a paid, volunteer army that eliminated land ownership requirements for soldiers.

Tiberius Gracchus

Tribune of the Plebs who proposed land reform and was assassinated in 133 BCE, marking an introduction of political violence.

Gaius Gracchus

More radical brother of Tiberius, who pursued various reforms and was also killed, highlighting internal conflicts within the ruling class.

Optimates

Senatorial faction that aimed to maintain traditional privileges of the wealthy and Senate.

Populares

Faction within the Senate that sought reforms and gained support by appealing to the common people.

First Triumvirate

An unofficial alliance formed by Pompey, Crassus, and Caesar to consolidate power and mutual benefit.

Caesar Crosses the Rubicon

Caesar's act of marching his army across the Rubicon River in 49 BCE, igniting a civil war.

'Veni, vidi, vici'

Julius Caesar's famous declaration meaning 'I came, I saw, I conquered' after military victories.

Assassination of Julius Caesar

Caesar was killed on March 15, 44 BCE, by a group of senators, including Brutus, fearing his power.

Land Crisis

A major factor in the decline of the Roman Republic, characterized by wealth concentration and poverty among small farmers.

Military Dictators

Leaders who emerged from the civil unrest in Rome, characterized by a strong military following and authority.

Civil War

A conflict initiated by Caesar's decision to cross the Rubicon, leading to his rise as a key figure and eventual dictator.

Public Works Programs

Reforms implemented by Caesar to employ the poor and improve infrastructure in Rome.

Lex Calpurnia

A law intended to prosecute governors and generals for extortion and bribery in the provinces.