What did Julius Caesar do during the time he was in control?
Julius Caesar, during his time in control, implemented various significant reforms and policies in the Roman Republic. Here are some of his notable actions:
1. Consolidation of power: After securing consulship and forming the First Triumvirate with Pompey and Crassus, Caesar gradually concentrated power in his hands, undermining the authority of the Senate.
2. Political and administrative reforms: Caesar introduced numerous reforms to enhance the efficiency of the Roman state. He reformed the calendar, creating the Julian calendar that is still in use today, and introduced administrative reforms to alleviate corruption and increase the power of the central government.
3. Conquests and military campaigns: Caesar led military campaigns to expand Roman territories, notably conquering Gaul (modern-day France) in a series of campaigns from 58 to 50 BCE. He also invaded Britain twice and conducted a successful campaign in Egypt.
4. Imperial cult: Caesar promoted the cult of his own personality, blurring the line between religion and politics. He was worshipped as a divinity in some parts of the Roman Empire.
5. Social and economic reforms: Caesar implemented land reform policies aimed at alleviating poverty and reducing economic inequality. He provided land for his veterans and implemented measures to improve the condition of the poor.
6. Legal reforms: Caesar sponsored laws to provide better protections for debtors, introduce more lenient punishments, and reform the legal system itself, making it more accessible and less corrupt.
7. Infrastructure projects: He initiated several ambitious construction projects, including the ongoing construction of the Forum of Julius Caesar and the expansion of Roman road networks.
8. Citizenship reforms: Caesar extended Roman citizenship to more groups of people, including inhabitants of Gaul and parts of Hispania.
9. Financial reforms: He reformed the tax system and reduced the corruption within tax collection to enhance the state's revenue.
10. Reconciliation efforts: Caesar aimed to heal divisions within the Roman society and establish unity. He pardoned his political opponents and integrated them into his own administration.
It is important to note that Caesar's time in control came to an end with his assassination in 44 BCE, preventing him from fully implementing all his intended reforms.