Review the timeline and answer the question. 509 BCE: Rome becomes a republic 458 BCE: Roman general Cincinnatus is temporarily appointed " dictator" to stop the overthrowing of the government . 458 BCE: Cincinnatus returns power to the Roman Senate. 49 BCE: Roman general Julius Caesar invades Rome and defeats his rivals to gain power 44 BCECaesar declares himself dictator for life, and Rome becomes an empire under his nephew , Octavian . How did Caesar affect the fall of the Roman Republic ? (1 point )

1 answer

Julius Caesar significantly affected the fall of the Roman Republic through his military conquests, political maneuvers, and the establishment of his dictatorship. By invading Rome in 49 BCE and defeating his rivals, he undermined the power of the Senate and traditional republican governance. His appointment as "dictator for life" in 44 BCE marked a critical shift towards autocratic rule, as it centralized power and indicated a departure from the republican ideals that had characterized Rome since 509 BCE. After Caesar's assassination, the power struggle that ensued ultimately led to the rise of his adopted heir, Octavian (Augustus), and the establishment of the Roman Empire, solidifying the end of the Republic. Thus, Caesar's actions played a crucial role in dismantling the republican system and paving the way for imperial rule.