The Civil Wars

The Civil Wars by Appian is a work of political and military history that provides an overview of the most turbulent period in the history of Rome. It consists of books 13-17 of The Roman History and is considered essential by classical scholars and historians. The Roman Republic erupts in a series of violent civil wars, with Sullan and Marian forces waging two wars between the Optimates and the Populares. In 81 BC, Sulla declared himself Dictator of the Republic, leading to executions and political repression. The First Triumvirate between Caesar, Crassus, and Pompey shifts power from the Optimates to the Populares, creating tension between the Roman Senate and the Republics leading generals and elected officials.

Format: Hardback
Length: 174 pages
Publication date: 15 February 2022
Publisher: West Margin Press

The Civil Wars (c. 150) is a comprehensive work of political and military history authored by Appian. Composed towards the conclusion of his illustrious career as a prominent advocate in Rome, The Civil Wars comprises Books 13 to 17 of The Roman History, Appian's 24-book exploration of the Roman Republic and Empire. Appian's work has long held esteemed status among classical scholars and historians, offering a valuable and largely impartial account of the most turbulent era in the history of Rome. In the aftermath of the assassinations of the Gracchi brothers, tribunes who sought to implement sweeping reforms in favor of the impoverished and veterans, the Roman Republic descended into a series of violent civil conflicts. Spanning from 88 to 81 BC, Sullan and Marian forces engaged in two wars that divided the country between the Optimates, led by Sulla, and the Populares, under the control of Marius. In 81 BC, the victorious Sulla proclaimed himself Dictator of the Republic, initiating a period characterized by executions and political repression of individuals deemed adversaries of the state. Several years later, in 60 BC, the First Triumvirate formed by Caesar, Crassus, and Pompey shifted power from the Optimates back to the Populares, generating tension between the Roman Senate and the Republic's esteemed generals and elected officials. As Caesar's military triumphs and territorial expansions bolstered his power and popularity, Pompey aligned himself with the Senate. In a daring act of defiance, Caesar crossed the Rubicon with his army in 49 BC, initiating a four-year civil war that would ultimately culminate in Caesar declaring himself Dictator for life, effectively bringing an end to the Roman Republic after nearly five centuries of existence. Accessible and meticulously crafted, Appian's The Civil Wars stands as an invaluable contribution from one of the preeminent historians of the Roman Empire.

Dimension: 203 x 127 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781513132693