Gaius Marius Biography

Gaius Marius was a Roman general, politician, and military reformer, who had played an important role in the transformation of Rome. He was elected as the consul on seven occasions, including five successive consulships. He had also contributed in initiating noted Roman reforms like providing employment to landless citizens, structuring and organizing large military groups into cohorts, etc. He started his career as a soldier in Spain under the leadership of the great Scipio Aemilianus. Gaius soon became quite popular among his troop members and was hailed as a fearless, able and energetic man. From being a brave soldier, he climbed the ladder of success to become an admired general. He continued his prosperous journey and went on to become the mighty consul of Rome on seven occasions! Often referred to as ‘The Savior of Rome’, Gaius also defeated Germanic tribes like the Ambrones, Teutones and Cimbri who had invaded Rome around 102 B.C. Though he was loved and admired for his relentless contribution towards building the Roman Empire, Marius’ reputation was tarnished later in his career.