The Beginning of the End: The Gracchi Brothers
The late Roman Republic has long been a source of fascination - whether for the great historical figures it produced (think Caesar or Cicero) or for the resulting empire that would emerge from its ruins. Although the generation of Caesar and Pompey became synonymous with the republics fall, we must look further into the past to see the start of its deterioration. The role of the Gracchi brothers provided the first spark of revolution that would continue over the next century. By the late 2nd century BC, Rome had established itself as the dominant force in the Mediterranean world - conquering Carthage, large parts of Spain (Hispania), Macedonia and Greece (among others). However, despite the vast wealth generated from these conquests, not all within Rome were content with society back home. The Gracchi Born c. 168 BC, Tiberius Gracchus made a name for himself through a spell of successful military service. He participated in the Siege of Carthage (146) and held the Quae...