Born Gaius Julius Caesar (100-44 BCE); Julius Caesar was one the most infamous figures in history. A Roman politican; general and author; he played a critical role in the fall of the Roman Republic and paved the way for the rise of the Roman Empire. His political alliance alongside Crassus and Pompey; first formed in 60 BCE; would dominate Roman politics for many years. His victories in the Gallic Wars extended the Republic's territories all the way to the English Channel and the Rhine; and he became the first Roman general to build a bridge across the Rhine; as well as starting the invasion of Britain.

With these achievements under his belt; he amassed unmatched military power to himself; soon eclipsing his political ally Pompey. The Senate; also fearful of his growing power; demanded he step down from military command and return to Rome; which he refused; and marked his defiance by crossing the Rubicon with a legion in 49 BCE; illegally entering Roman Italy with an army and causing a civil war that he quickly crushed.

Taking control of the government; Caesar began implementing various social and political changes; declaring himself 'dictator in perpetuity'. The Senate still held much contempt for him however; and during the Ides of March (15 March) 44 BCE; Caesar was assassinated by a conspiracy of rebellious senators led by former friend and ally; Marcus Junius Brutus. A new string of civil wars ensued; ultimately concluding with Julius Caesar's adopted heir; Octavian; emerging victorious and becoming emperor.