Gaius Marius

4 Pages 1069 Words

Gaius Marius

By Michelle Dillow

Gaius Marius was a man who rose from nothing into everything. He was called a “novus homo” which means New Man, because he was not Roman by birth, and did not have family in politics. Lady Fortune was on his side. He had money, married into a noble family, and obtained the highest political office in the Roman republic seven times. This accomplishment was almost impossible for anyone not born of Roman blood. He was a “vir militaris“, a Military man, and a brilliant general that knew how to command armies. He treated his soldiers like people and was very concerned about their welfare and benefits. His concerns were for the common people of Rome and for nationals who could not gain citizenship. He knew the republic was failing and he wanted to change it for the better.

Marius had many friends and many enemies. Both his friends and enemies were powerful. Gaius Julius Caesar saw the potential to be great in Marius. He knew Marius wanted to be consul, and knew that Marius deserved the position. Marius had been elected as Quaestor years before. Gaius Julius knew that he was too old to be consul, so he decided to offer Marius marriage to his daughter, Julia. This would bring Marius into a noble family and would be his starting point on obtaining consulship. Julia was a good wife to Marius while he was away on his military campaigns. Marius also cared a lot for his family, which he only had one child, but was very affectionate toward them.

Another friend was Publius Rutilius Rufus. Publius Rutilius knew of Marius’ genius in war strategy and kept him up to date with the dealings of Rome during Marius’ consulship. Marius wanted to expand the size of the army by allowing any able bodied person to enlist. Before He also helped Marius gain control in the defense against the Germans. Rome only wanted people who could afford to buy their own equipment. This was not eno...