His Year(s): Pompey (56 to 52 B.C.E.)
Historia Civilis・12 minutes read
Rome faced political turmoil with the conflict between Senator Clodius and Senator Milo, leading to violence and chaos in the city. Pompey eventually rose to power through manipulation and violence, ultimately breaking alliances and ending the Triumvirate to restore order in Rome.
Insights
- Clodius and Milo's conflict in Rome escalated into violent street gangs disrupting public life, leading to a chaotic trial where bribery and threats influenced verdicts, reflecting the political turmoil of the time.
- The formation of the Triumvirate by Pompey, Crassus, and Caesar in response to Rome's instability showcased a power play through violence, manipulation, and shifting alliances, culminating in Pompey's rise to sole consul and eventual betrayal of his former allies, marking a significant turning point in Roman politics.
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Recent questions
What caused turmoil in Rome?
Conflict between Senators Clodius and Milo.
Who formed the Triumvirate?
Pompey, Crassus, and Caesar.
What led to Pompey's rise in popularity?
Hosting successful public games.
What was the Final Act legislation?
Granted Pompey unrestricted power to defend the Republic.
What led to the end of the Triumvirate?
Conservative reforms targeting Caesar.
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Summary
00:00
Political turmoil in Rome: Pompey's rise.
- Rome was in turmoil due to the conflict between Senator Clodius and Senator Milo, who raised street gangs to disrupt public life.
- Milo tried to end the violence by accusing Clodius in court, but Clodius was acquitted through bribery and threats.
- Clodius retaliated by accusing Milo, leading to a chaotic trial where Pompey's support for Milo was drowned out by Clodius's supporters.
- Clodius's chants against Pompey hinted at political ambitions and alliances, including a potential campaign in the east.
- Rumors of Crassus funding Clodius's violence hinted at a secret arrangement between them.
- Clodius's supporters turned violent towards Pompey, leading to a brawl and fears of assassination.
- Pompey, Crassus, and Caesar formed the Triumvirate to secure power and governorships, with Pompey and Crassus winning elections through violence and manipulation.
- Pompey broke his agreement with Caesar and Crassus, choosing to stay in Rome to establish his power.
- Pompey's popularity rose after hosting successful public games, but his wife's death led to a period of mourning.
- Rome faced corruption scandals and political instability, leading to calls for Pompey to restore order and his controversial appointment as sole consul in 52 BCE.
14:48
Pompey's Rise, Fall, and Reforms in Rome
- The Final Act legislation granted Pompey unrestricted power to defend the Republic, akin to Martial Law, allowing him to raise an army and occupy Rome to restore order. Pompey had Milo arrested for Clodius's murder, leading to Milo's exile, and eventually relinquished his authority after restoring peace. Pompey remarried and, with his father-in-law, passed Conservative reforms targeting Caesar, breaking their alliance and ending the Triumvirate.
