Caesar’s First Consulship

When was Caesar elected consul?

59 BC

Who was Caesar’s second consul in 59 BC?

Calpurnius Bibulus

What were the two agrarian bills passed by Caesar?

The first bill, passed in early 59 BC, was to deal with Rome’s many landless citizens and Pompey’s veterans. → Important as it sets off a chain reaction leading to the passing of further bills.

The second bill re-allocated a large area of Campanian land

Who did Caesar have opposition from when trying to pass his first land bill?

Bibulus wanted to use the tribunes veto to try and stop Caesar’s bill from being passed. He had gained the support of three tribunes.

He proclaimed a sacred period from the rest of the year where people could not even meet in their assembly.

How did Caesar respond to Bibulus’ opposition?

He used violence and intimidation to undermine Bibulus and ensure all other opposition to his bill was removed. He did this by having Bibulus’ fasces broken and a basket of manure dumped over his head at the Forum. He also had two of the tribunes attacked and thrown down the steps of the Forum.

After the first land bill was passed what did Bibulus do?

As augur he observed bad bird omens that he proclaimed meant the day was inauspicious for passing legislation but Caesar ignored him.

Bibulus retired home for the rest of his consulship.

How did Crassus and Pompey support the first land bill?

Crassus spoke on behalf of the first land bill and Pompey filled Rome with his veterans

When Caesar wanted to pass the second land bill how did he ensure no opposition from Cato?

Caesar had Cato temporarily arrested by the restraining when the Campanian law was about to be passed because he was concerned about Cato using the fillibuster.

What bill did Caesar pass to help Pompey?

A bill ratifying Pompey’s eastern settlements which would aid Pompey’s auctoritas in Rome and the east with his patron clients.

This strengthened his Amicitia with Pompey.

What bill did Caesar pass to help Crassus?

A bill reducing the money owed by the publicani by a 1/3 which aided Crassus’ relations with the equestrians.

This strengthened Caesar’s Amicitia with Crassus.

Give 2 examples of Populares agenda passed by Caesar?

• The publication of public business which meant the proceedings of the senate and Roman people would be published ensuring that the Roman people were kept informed

• Provincial bill which was aimed at protecting provinces from being exploited by the corrupt governors→ Solving a long term issue

Why was Caesar passing such a range of legislation? Give 3 reasons

• Amicitia with Pompey and Crassus

• Popularis agenda→ genuine reformer? Or for personal gain?

• To solve multiple blockages in the senate