Gaius Marius was one of the most remarkable and significant figures of the late Roman Republic.
However, after several harrowing brushes with death, Marius seized an opportunity to return to Rome and mete out justice to his enemies, which tarnished his once-enviable reputation..
Marius, once hailed as the savior of Rome, eventually became a desperate fugitive, literally fleeing for his life from his pursuers.
Marius\' subsequent career was primarily that of an elder statesman, but it was dominated by his rivalry with his erstwhile subordinate, Sulla, which ultimately led to the latter\'s bloody coup.
Marius reformed and retrained the Republic\'s forces and decisively defeated the invaders that had easily overpowered his predecessors.
His return was timely as northern barbarian tribes threatened Italy and had previously defeated several Roman armies.
First serving in the Numantine War in Spain, he later rose to high command and brought a long-running war in North Africa to a successful conclusion, bringing the Numidian King Jurgurtha back in chains.
His political career flourished but was primarily built on military success.
He even went on to hold the post an unprecedented seven times.
At a time when power tended to be restricted to a clique of influential families, he rose from relatively humble origins to attain the top office of consul.
Gaius Marius was one of the most remarkable and significant figures of the late Roman Republic
