The Roman Dictatorship

Sulla's Rule

Gary Arndt explores the significant impact of Sulla's dictatorship on Roman history. Sulla was appointed dictator with unprecedented powers and an indefinite term, setting a dangerous precedent. He used his authority to issue prescription lists, allowing anyone on the list to be legally killed by anyone else 1.

Sulla, to his credit, did, after several years, step down from dictator and retire to his villa. However, precedent had been set. Now that there was a dictatorship that had extended for multiple years and encompassed complete power over everything, it was just a matter of time before someone else did it and went even further.

--- Gary Arndt

This abuse of power paved the way for future dictators, including Julius Caesar, to exploit the position further 2.

   

Caesar's Power

Julius Caesar's multiple appointments as dictator marked a turning point in Roman politics. Unlike previous dictators, Caesar was appointed four times, with his final appointment being for life, which was a clear violation of the temporary nature of the office 2.

Caesar used the office as a way to achieve perpetual power. Whereas it was formerly honorable to give up the position of dictator as soon as possible, Caesar abused it by finding a loophole.

--- Gary Arndt

His actions blurred the lines between a dictator and a king, leading to his assassination and the eventual abolition of the dictatorship position 1.

   

End of Dictatorship

The abolition of the dictatorship position was a direct response to the abuses by Sulla and Caesar. Mark Antony proposed the abolition immediately after Caesar's assassination, making it illegal to propose, vote for, or accept the position 2.

Afterwards, anyone who proposed, voted for, or accepted the position of dictator was subject to summary execution.

--- Gary Arndt

This move aimed to prevent future abuses, but it also paved the way for the rise of emperors, who wielded even more power than any dictator ever had 2.