Cicero was a famous Roman statesman. He was born six years before Julius Caesar. They were in politics at the same time. Cicero was from a wealthy family. He was educated as a lawyer. He served in the Senate. He served as elected Consul, the highest position in government under the Republic. He was a wonderful speaker. When Cicero spoke, people listened. 

Cicero said about government, "In a kingdom, only the king has many rights. Kings can be wise and just. But rule by one person can easily become tyranny." 

When Julius Caesar entered the city of Rome with his army, and declared himself dictator, Cicero said: "I see no reason for ... being alarmed except the fact that, once departure has been made from the law, everything is uncertain; and nothing can be guaranteed as to the future which depends upon another man's will, not to say caprice. When Caesar declared himself dictator for life, his action was in direction violation of the principals of a constitutional republic." 

The day Julius Caesar was assassinated, Cicero was there. But he was not one of Julius Caesar's attackers.

Cicero lived at time when Rome was changing from a constitutional republic to a dictatorship, ruled by emperors. Cicero fought in the way he knew best, with words and speeches, about the importance of keeping a constitutional government. His words did not fall on dead ears, but the Senate had lost nearly all its power.  

As the transition continued, and Rome became ruled by an all-powerful emperor, Cicero had to flee Rome. He ran for his life. But he was captured by the emperor's forces, and killed.  

His legacy of writings tell us a great deal about ancient Roman government and daily life. Cicero's words are still powerful today, just as they were two thousand years ago. 

Cicero's Life 

Cicero - On the Republic 

The Complete Writings of Cicero

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