The Battle of Numidia

Marius campaigned on a platform denouncing the slow pace of Mattelis' strategy. The public swept Marius into his first consulship in 107 BC. He was given Numidia and tasked with following through on his promise to end the war. To accomplish this goal, Marius asked permission to raise his own legions. But then Marius asked for an exemption from the rules governing recruitment. There would be no property qualifications this time. Any citizen was eligible, landowner or not.