Classical Wisdom Speaks Rome's Greatest Rivalry?
4 snips
Aug 28, 2025 
Join award-winning author Stephen Dando-Collins as he delves into the fierce rivalry between Julius Caesar and Pompey. Discover how these powerful figures transformed from allies to enemies, shaping the fate of the Roman Republic. Explore the gambling culture that mirrored their political games, the complexities of ancient power struggles, and Pompey's dramatic downfall. Dando-Collins also connects lessons from Rome's past to modern politics, offering a thought-provoking look at ambition and governance throughout history.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Pompey's Violent Rise To Power
- Young Pompey built his own army after his father's funeral was dishonored and joined Sulla to crush the Marian faction.
- By age 23 he earned a triumph and rose to fame through decisive victories and loyalty to Sulla.
History Is Shaped By Who Tells It
- Caesar's lasting fame owes much to self-authored propaganda and later political idolizers like Napoleon and Mussolini.
- Pompey lacked a comparable narrative and suffered historical neglect despite comparable achievements.
The First Triumvirate's Tight-Knit Alliance
- Caesar, Pompey and Crassus formed the First Triumvirate and publicly linked arms to display unity.
- Pompey married Caesar's daughter Julia, creating a genuine personal and political bond that later collapsed when she died.
