What happened on July 12th?

No, I’m not talking about the salad dressing, though that too has its roots in the month of July. I am talking about Gaius Julius Caesar, the first dictator perpetuor, the guy that helped Ancient Rome go from a republic to an empire.

Today is his birthday. Were he alive today, he would be 2124 years old, and maybe still in charge of Rome.

His life was one of those few lives that encompassed a massive shift in history, which is why even today his name rings as loudly as ever.

Here’s more about Caesar and the other things that happened on July 12:

100 BC: The Birth of Julius Caesar, Roman Ruler

Julius Caesar, born in 100 BC, was an important figure in Roman history, instrumental in the transition from the Roman Republic to the Roman Empire. Born into the patrician Julian clan, Caesar's early political alignment with the Marian faction forced him into temporary exile during Sulla's dictatorship. Upon his return, Caesar rapidly ascended the political ladder, demonstrating exceptional oratory and leadership skills.

In 60 BC, Caesar formed the First Triumvirate with Pompey and Crassus, an alliance that helped him secure the consulship in 59 BC. His subsequent military campaigns in Gaul from 58 to 50 BC not only expanded Rome's territories but also significantly increased his wealth and popularity. His military prowess and detailed accounts of the Gallic Wars bolstered his reputation.

The ensuing political tensions with the Senate and Pompey led to a civil war in 49 BC, marked by Caesar's decisive crossing of the Rubicon. After defeating Pompey and consolidating power, he was appointed dictator perpetuo, or dictator for life, in 44 BC, initiating crucial reforms across Roman society. However, his accumulation of power alarmed many senators, leading to his assassination on the Ides of March (15th), 44 BC.

Caesar's death precipitated the end of the Roman Republic and the rise of the Roman Empire under his adopted heir, Octavian. Read more in Julius Caesar and How Did Julius Caesar Die? Betrayed and Stabbed to Death.

🔨 1389: Geoffrey Chaucer Was Named Chief Clerk

Geoffrey Chaucer, best known for his literary work The Canterbury Tales, was appointed Chief Clerk of the King's Works by King Richard II. This position placed him in charge of overseeing the construction and maintenance of royal buildings, allowing him to remain close to the royal court.

👑 1543: King Henry VIII of England Married Catherine Parr

King Henry VIII married his sixth and final wife, Catherine Parr. Unlike his previous marriages, this union lasted until Henry's death in 1547. Catherine Parr is credited with influencing Henry's children and promoting the English Reformation. Read more about Henry VIII’s death in How Did Henry VIII Die? The Injury That Costs a Life.

✍️ 1861: Confederacy Signed Treaties with Native Americans

The Confederate States of America, seeking strategic alliances during the American Civil War, signed treaties with several Native American tribes including the Cherokee, Choctaw, and Chickasaw. These treaties were part of the Confederacy's efforts to gain military and logistical support against Union forces. The alliances provided the tribes with promises of territorial sovereignty and political autonomy, but these promises often fell short, leading to complex conflicts and repercussions for the tribes involved. Read more about the Civil War in The American Civil War: Dates, Causes, and People.

🎖️ 1862: The Medal of Honor Was Created for the U.S. Army

President Abraham Lincoln signed legislation creating the Medal of Honor, the highest military decoration awarded by the United States government. Initially established to honor sailors and Marines who distinguished themselves during the Civil War, the award was later extended to all service branches. The Medal of Honor is awarded to those who exhibit valor far beyond the call of duty in combat against an enemy of the United States.

🚁 1957: Eisenhower Took First Presidential Ride in a Helicopter

President Dwight D. Eisenhower became the first sitting U.S. president to use a helicopter for official travel. This marked the beginning of the use of helicopters as a regular mode of transportation for the President, enhancing mobility and security.

🎸 1962: The Rolling Stones Performed Their First Ever Live Show

The Rolling Stones performed their first live show at the Marquee Club in London. The Marquee Club was a small venue, and the band was not yet well-known, so the attendance was likely relatively small, perhaps a few dozen people. This performance marked the beginning of their rise to fame and their status as one of the most influential rock bands in history.

2005: Prince Albert II Assumes the Throne of Monaco

Prince Albert II officially became the Sovereign Prince of Monaco following the death of his father, Prince Rainier III. His reign has been noted for its strong emphasis on environmental protection and sustainability, reflecting his personal commitment to these issues. Additionally, Prince Albert II has worked towards modernizing Monaco's image and economy, maintaining its status as a cultural and financial hub while addressing contemporary global challenges.

🌟 Born on This Day in History

1817: Henry David Thoreau, Writer

Henry David Thoreau was an American naturalist, essayist, and philosopher, best known for his works Walden and Civil Disobedience. His writings have had a lasting impact on environmentalism and civil rights movements.

1884: Amedeo Modigliani, Italian Artist

Amedeo Modigliani was an Italian painter and sculptor known for his distinctive portraits and nudes featuring elongated faces and figures. His work, though not widely recognized during his lifetime, has gained significant acclaim posthumously.

1904: Pablo Neruda, Chilean Poet

Pablo Neruda, a Nobel Prize-winning poet, is celebrated for his passionate and sensuous poetry. His works include Twenty Love Poems and a Song of Despair and Canto General, reflecting his deep love for his homeland and commitment to political activism.

💔 Died on This Day in History

1536: Erasmus, Dutch Humanist

Erasmus was a Dutch Renaissance humanist, theologian, and scholar who made significant contributions to classical literature and Christian theology. His works, including In Praise of Folly, remain influential in the study of humanism and the Reformation.

1804: Alexander Hamilton, United States Statesman

Alexander Hamilton, one of the Founding Fathers of the United States and the first Secretary of the Treasury died after being mortally wounded in a duel with Vice President Aaron Burr just the day before. His contributions to the foundation of the U.S. financial system are profound. Read more about their duel in our July 12th newsletter.

1712: Richard Cromwell, English Statesman

Richard Cromwell was the son of Oliver Cromwell and served briefly as Lord Protector of England, Scotland, and Ireland following his father's death. His tenure was short-lived, leading to the restoration of the monarchy under Charles II.

Have a great day!

Matt