Marius

Gaius Marius (158/157-86 BC) has a major transformational impact on the history of the late Roman Republic. Although none of his ancestors had been a member of the Senate, he managed to reach the consulship on seven occasions, and was responsible for a series of major military victories, notably against King Jugurtha in North Africa and the Teutons and the Cimbrians in Southern Gaul and Northern Italy. Much of his internal political agenda, however, was highly controversial. His reform of the army recruitment system was regarded by some (perhaps with undue emphasis) as a crucial factor in the downfall of the Roman Republic. The final years of his life witnessed his exile, his return to Rome at the head of an armed force, and his comeback to power, shortly followed by his sudden death.
This volume provides an account of the life and career of Gaius Marius, sets his achievements and failures within the wider context of the decline of the Roman Republic, and discusses his political legacy in the following decades. It also provides an assessment of the main modern interpretations of the man and his policies.

“Santangelo has written a concise and pertinent account of Marius’ life. His style is fluent with the ancient evidence sensibly analyzed. The sources are unreliable, biased, and written long after the events, but the author vigilantly pieces the life together. The book is also commendable in the way it covers challenging issues … This accessible little book, is a fine starting point for anyone wishing to read about Marius and the world in which he lived.” –Res Militares

“The aim is to be an accessible introduction to the essentials of the subject’s life and later significance, and Santangelo’s Marius certainly achieves this aim. Indeed it will be the starting point for any student or academic wanting something more in-depth than offered by standard text books and dictionary or encyclopedia entries.” - Bryn Mawr Classical Review