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Today in History: March 15, Julius Caesar assassinated

Today marks a fateful day in history: March 15, the day Julius Caesar was assassinated.

The Roman general and statesman was murdered in 44 BC, after he had been declared dictator for life. The assassination was led by a conspiracy of senators, including Caesar's friend and former ally, Marcus Brutus. The event is widely considered one of the key turning points in Roman history that led to the fall of the Roman Republic and the rise of the Roman Empire.

The story of Caesar's assassination is often told through the words of the Roman poet and playwright, William Shakespeare. In his famous play, “Julius Caesar”, Brutus is portrayed as a tragic hero, torn between his loyalty to Caesar and his duty to the state. In the famous line, “Et tu, Brute?” Caesar expresses his surprise at his former friend's betrayal.

Caesar's death would have lasting consequences for the Roman world. The senators who assassinated him were soon deposed, and the Roman Republic was replaced by the Roman Empire. This new imperial order was founded on the ideals of centralization and autocracy, paving the way for the rule of emperors like Augustus and Nero.

The legacy of Julius Caesar is still felt today. He is remembered as one of the greatest military commanders of all time, and his reforms of the Roman government have been an inspiration for democratic movements throughout history. His death is a reminder of the fragility of power and the dangers of ambition.