The correct response is:
He was a governor and general who declared himself dictator for life.
Julius Caesar played a crucial role in the transition from the Roman Republic to the Roman Empire. He was a military general and a key political leader who, after a successful campaign in Gaul, accumulated significant power and influence. In 44 BCE, he declared himself dictator for life, which ultimately led to his assassination due to fears that he was becoming too powerful and undermining the republic.