Crossing The Potomac

What can we learn from the story of Julius Caesar in an era of Trumpism? 

Julius Caesar famously met his fate in 44 B.C., on the steps of the Roman senate, mythically uttering, “Et Tu, Brute?” as his rivals stabbed him 35 times. It wasn’t always like that, Caesar was the great unifier of Rome. The empire he led expanded across the continent and laid the foundation of modern-day Europe. His oratory skills, political ambition, sexual prowess and skill as a general are still studied today by historians and military strategists alike.

Caesar’s storied ascendency to power, like his fate, was seemingly foretold. He was born in 100 B.C. into the Roman elite to a family with powerful political credentials. His bravery and boldness led him to the highest political ranks, and by 60 B.C., he had built an alliance with Pompey and Crassus to form the first Triumvirate to rule the Republic. Together, they governed for over a decade until Crassus died. That set the stage for an epic showdown which bri…