The Last Republican

The assassination of Marcus Tullius Cicero, one of the most significant events in Roman history, occurred on December 7, 43 BCE. This event marked not only the end of a prominent political and literary figure but also a pivotal moment in the Roman Republic’s transformation.

Cicero, a renowned orator, lawyer, and statesman, was known for his profound influence on the Roman Republic’s politics and his contributions to Roman literature and philosophy. His relationship with Mark Antony, a leading general and politician, was complex and fraught with political rivalry. Cicero was a staunch defender of the Republic and viewed Antony’s growing power and influence with suspicion and disdain. This animosity was vividly expressed through Cicero’s Philippics, a series of speeches condemning Antony and advocating for his removal from power.

The motive for Cicero’s assassination can be traced back to the formation of the Second Triumvirate, comprising Mark Antony, Octavian (later Augustus), and Lepidus. This alliance, formed to consolidate power and defeat the assassins of Julius Caesar, also aimed to eliminate their political adversaries. Cicero, with his vehement opposition to Antony and support for the Republic, became a prime target. His name was placed on the proscription lists, marking him as an enemy of the state and sanctioning his execution.

The events of Cicero’s assassination were a tragic culmination of his political struggles. Cicero, aware of his imminent danger, attempted to flee Rome. However, he was intercepted by a band of soldiers led by Antony’s henchmen. In a final act of defiance and dignity, Cicero extended his neck to his executioners, meeting his end without resistance.

The legacy of Cicero’s murder is multifaceted. His death symbolized the demise of the Roman Republic and the onset of the Imperial era. The violent nature of his killing reflected the turbulent and brutal politics of the time. In the aftermath, Cicero’s works and ideas lived on, continuing to influence Western philosophy, rhetoric, and political thought. His writings became essential texts for understanding the principles of the Roman Republic and the ideals of governance and justice.

Cicero’s assassination also had a lasting impact on Roman society and politics. It exemplified the dangerous consequences of political power struggles and the fragility of republican institutions in the face of authoritarian ambitions. His life and death remain a testament to the ideals of the Republic and the perils faced by those who defend them against the tides of autocracy.