Gaius Julius Caesar (ca. July 13, 100 BC—March 15, 44 BC) was a Roman politician and military leader. He became famous for his massive expansion of Rome's territorial reach as well as for his quick fall from power after declaring himself dictator for life. Controversial with the Senate for his large personal army and lofty ambitions, his rivalries often turned into warfare.

Caesar claimed to be acting for the good of the republic—and, for example, his adoption of the Julian calendar was beneficial. However, over the years his motivations became more and more suspect. His once wide popularity with the Roman public came to a crashing end on March 15 (the Ides of March), 44 BC, when he was stabbed to death during a Senate meeting.

Author: Audrey Col-Spector. Copyright ©2015-2018 EnchantedLearning.com.