Explore the dramatic escalation of the Roman Civil War as Caesar defies the Senate and crosses the Rubicon, marking a pivotal moment in history. Uncover the intriguing political dynamics leading up to this conflict, including shocking defections and strategic retreats. Witness Caesar's military brilliance during the Spanish campaign and the brutal siege of Marseille. Delve into Caesar's personal motivations, revealing a leader shaped by honor and dignity amid escalating chaos and betrayal.
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insights INSIGHT
Dignity Sparks Civil War
Caesar was deeply concerned with his dignity and official recognition rather than just political power.
His enemies' refusal to acknowledge his rank escalated tensions leading to civil war.
insights INSIGHT
Civil War is Narrative War
Civil war narratives rely on beliefs and perceptions as much as military force.
Competing views make assigning blame difficult in civil conflicts.
insights INSIGHT
Alliances Shift Before War
Caesar shows political savvy by communicating through allies like Curio to influence outcomes.
Curio’s defection highlights the shifting alliances before war.
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The last generation of the Roman Republic
Erich S. Gruen
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Part 1 of 3 of Caesar's Civil War series. The die is cast—Caesar crosses the Rubicon and plunges Rome into civil war. In this episode:
The political crisis of 51-50 BCE as Caesar's enemies demand his recall from Gaul
Curio's shocking defection and proposal that both Caesar and Pompey lay down arms
The breakdown of negotiations and Pompey's fateful acceptance of command against Caesar
His lightning campaign through Italy as cities surrender without a fight
The siege of Corfinium and Caesar's revolutionary policy of clemency toward enemies
Pompey's strategic retreat to Greece, abandoning Rome and splitting the Republic
The brilliant Spanish campaign at Ilerda, showcasing Caesar's military genius
The brutal siege of Marseille and Caesar's appointment as Dictator
Caesar's own account reveals a man driven not by revolutionary ambition, but by wounded dignity and the desperate need to defend his honor against enemies who would destroy him through partisan prosecution.
As Lucan wrote of this cosmic struggle: "Of civil wars and worse waged on Thessalian fields / Of crime made law we sing, how a powerful people / Turned on its own heart its conquering hand."
The war that would transform Rome forever begins not with grand ideology, but with Caesar's refusal to submit to humiliation—and his enemies' fatal miscalculation of the man they sought to crush.
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Also Thanks Dr. Richard Johnson, the Crassus to this Caesar series!
Cost of Glory 
