On the Ides of March 44BC - Gaius Julius Caesar was assassinated. He was stabbed 23 times, wounds that at least 60 people including Marcus Junius Brutus inflicted. A defenseless dictator, blinded by blood, fell for the last time – this time it was not because of an epileptic episode – but because of loss of blood and rapid organ deterioration. Rome’s journey to Imperialism – derailed – its leader – dead. His last words – to Brutus, "καὶ σύ, τέκνον;" (transliterated as "Kai su, teknon?": "You too, child?" in English).
The assassination was “an attempt” of the subversives to forestall – directly – Caesar’s absolute power, and indirectly - the eminent peak of the Roman Empire. The unwise rebels didn’t realize the latter and claimed to Rome as implicated by Brutus’ Defense that it’s out of Love for Her.
They said it was for everyone’s sake – claiming that their actions were intended to emancipate the polis from the dark and vile cloak of dictatorship. With these flowery orations, the people rejoiced not knowing what lied ahead.
Caesar’s demise marked the end of “The Republic”. Social classes became social clashes. Albeit Rome’s path to glory was actualized by Caesar’s successor Octavian - Caesar Augustus – the first Roman Emperor – Rome’s journey to the summit became bewildering. Civil wars broke out – one after the other – their history, although valuable, is mute and unnecessary to tell.
The rise and fall of an empire will never be dependent upon its leader. It will always be propelled by its people.
Again – to the subversives – “Never follow a blind guide. If you do, make sure you leave at least one eye open”
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