What Was Julius Caesar’s Leadership Style?
Julius Caesar was known for his highly intelligent strategies, controversial methods and staunchly brusque actions as a military leader and politician of the Roman Empire. He rose to become the dictator of Rome, and was eventually assassinated by political rivals.
Julius Caesar was born into an aristocratic family during a chaotic period in Roman history in which nobility by birth was not automatically viewed as a basis for authority. Military dictatorship was becoming the most popular and followed form of government, and Julius Caesar seized this opportunity to successfully begin a military and political career. After a successful campaign, he was named governor of Farther Spain, and a year after returning to Rome became the consul.
Being elected consul allowed Caesar to access political connections necessary to furthering his career. He created the first triumvirate by making a deal with two key Roman leaders named Pompey the Great and Crassus. While the triumvirate remained intact, they held a vast amount of power over Rome. After Julius Caesar led a lengthy and successful campaign in the country of Gaul, he returned to Rome and declared civil war against Pompey the Great, who had broken their deal after the death of Crassus. He defeated Pompey’s military forces due to brilliant tactical decisions in several key battles. He continued his political career after dealing with Pompey, and reached the highest form of power possible as dictator of Rome before being assassinated in 44 B.C.
