Ancient Rome for Kids and Teachers - Julius Caesar Illustration

Julius Caesar

Julius Caesar was a famous and important leader in ancient Rome during the Roman Republic, shortly before Roman government was taken over by Roman emperors. A month in the calendar is named after him - July, for Julius Caesar.  Julius Caesar was an able administrator and a famous general.  He wrote new laws and changed and improved how to rule provinces of the empire. The people of Rome thought he was great, but the leaders in the Senate did not agree. They were concerned that Julius Caesar ignored the law. The law was very important. It applied to all citizens equally, be they rich or poor.

Julius Caesar saw that the Roman Republic was in trouble.  Rome was overrun with crime and people were afraid to go out into the streets.  People were out of work and taxes had gone up again.  The Romans were angry with their government and were demanding the government do something.  Caesar spoke to the people and told them he knew what to do.  The Roman citizens believed and trusted him.  They wanted him to fix the problems of Rome. They wanted him in charge.

As Caesar gained power through the support of the people, the rest of the senate became worried that Caesar might actually make himself King.  The senate swore that they would never be ruled by a king again.

Caesar was becoming impatient with the Senate.  He had his own army. Even thought it was against the law for anyone to bring their private army into the city of Rome, he did just that.  The people cheered.  They were saved.  Caesar was going to solve all the problems of Rome.  The senate plotted.  They planned and then they acted.  To see what they did follow the links below.

Gossip at the Forum, Classroom Play

Julius Caesar (Eyewitness to History)

Caesar Murder Report (free download, school history, worksheet)

The Republic Fails