In 60 BC, Rome experienced a significant turn of events that shaped its history. This tumultuous period marked the rise and fall of powerful figures, political alliances, and military campaigns. Let’s delve into the key events that unfolded in Rome during this year.
The First Triumvirate
One of the most crucial developments in 60 BC was the formation of the First Triumvirate. This political alliance brought together three influential figures: Julius Caesar, Pompey the Great, and Marcus Licinius Crassus. Their combined power and influence allowed them to dominate Roman politics.
Caesar was a charismatic general who had achieved military success in Gaul, while Pompey was a highly respected military leader who had already served as consul multiple times. Crassus, on the other hand, was one of Rome’s wealthiest men.
The three men formed an unofficial alliance to consolidate their power and advance their individual interests. However, tensions soon emerged within this triumvirate.
Clodius’ Intrigues
A prominent figure during this period was Publius Clodius Pulcher. He was a popular politician known for his populist policies and connections with Caesar’s faction.
In 60 BC, Clodius orchestrated one of the most notorious acts in Roman history – he disguised himself as a woman to attend the sacred rites of Bona Dea (a female-only religious festival). His actions caused a scandal that not only ended his marriage but also threatened to tarnish Caesar’s reputation.
To avoid political fallout, Caesar divorced his wife Pompeia on the grounds that “Caesar’s wife must be above suspicion.” This incident strained relations between Caesar and Pompey since Pompeia happened to be Pompey’s relative. The incident also strained relations within the First Triumvirate.
Cicero’s Exile and Return
Another significant event in 60 BC was the exile of the renowned statesman and orator, Marcus Tullius Cicero. Cicero, known for his eloquence and legal expertise, had clashed with Clodius in the past.
Clodius used his political influence to pass a law that specifically Targeted Cicero. This law resulted in Cicero’s banishment from Rome. He was forced to go into exile in Thessalonica, Greece.
However, Cicero’s exile did not last long. In 57 BC, with the support of Pompey and other influential figures, he was allowed to return to Rome. His return marked a victory for him and a significant blow to Clodius’ influence.
Military Campaigns
While political intrigues played out within Rome, military campaigns were also being waged on various fronts.
In Gaul, Julius Caesar continued his conquests and consolidated Roman control over the region. The Gallic tribes put up fierce resistance under the leadership of Vercingetorix but were eventually defeated by Caesar’s forces in 52 BC.
In the east, Pompey undertook military campaigns against King Mithridates VI of Pontus and successfully brought several territories under Roman control.
Conclusion
In 60 BC, Rome witnessed a series of events that would shape its future course. The formation and subsequent tensions within the First Triumvirate set the stage for further power struggles. Clodius’ scandalous actions and Cicero’s exile highlighted the volatile nature of Roman politics during this period.
The military campaigns led by Caesar in Gaul and Pompey in the east expanded Roman territories but also strained their relationship. These events laid the groundwork for the future conflicts and power dynamics that would ultimately lead to the fall of the Roman Republic.