Why Cato's opposition to land reform, i.e. the distribution of government land (publicly owned, not privately owned, land) to the poor and retiring military veterans?
Sep 22, 2023·edited Sep 23, 2023Liked by Classical Wisdom
Great perspective thank you! Popular handouts and populist positions often go hand in hand with power grabs - Beware! Seems one of the only ways for an aspiring tyrant to actually be granted ultimate power.
I recently read an interesting theory as to the central role of Porcia, daughter to Cato the Younger, and wife to the most famous of the assassins, Brutus. THe theory goes Porcia, apparently a stunning beauty was instrumental in pulling the plot together, using her feminine charms to inspire Brutus to lead the effort, perhaps had him wrapped around her finger so to speak. Worth noting I'd only thought to explore this because the most recent season of HBOs White Lotus had a character named Porcia that seemed in reference to the ancient story - a worthwhile watch imho. Thanks again
Why Cato's opposition to land reform, i.e. the distribution of government land (publicly owned, not privately owned, land) to the poor and retiring military veterans?
My guess is that Cato knew that it was Caesar was trying to use bribery to the common people to win their support.
Thanks! I've heard of Cato the Younger, but didn't really know much about him. Now I want to read Plutarch's account!
Thank you so much for your consistently fascinating exploration of the history of Rome!
Great perspective thank you! Popular handouts and populist positions often go hand in hand with power grabs - Beware! Seems one of the only ways for an aspiring tyrant to actually be granted ultimate power.
I recently read an interesting theory as to the central role of Porcia, daughter to Cato the Younger, and wife to the most famous of the assassins, Brutus. THe theory goes Porcia, apparently a stunning beauty was instrumental in pulling the plot together, using her feminine charms to inspire Brutus to lead the effort, perhaps had him wrapped around her finger so to speak. Worth noting I'd only thought to explore this because the most recent season of HBOs White Lotus had a character named Porcia that seemed in reference to the ancient story - a worthwhile watch imho. Thanks again