Changes

[[Image:Caligula.jpg|thumb|Bust of Caligula]]

[[Image:Caligula.jpg|thumb|Bust of Caligula]]

'''Caligula''' ([[Latin]]: ''Gaius Julius Caesar Augustus Germanicus'', AD 12 – AD 41) was the third Roman emperor, reigning from AD 37-41. "Caligula" was a childhood nickname that meant "little boots." He was one of the most hated emperors, and was killed by his own guards.

'''Caligula''' ([[Latin]]: ''Gaius Julius Caesar Augustus Germanicus'', AD 12 – AD 41) was the third Roman emperor. He reigned from AD 37-41. "Caligula" was a childhood nickname that meant "little boots." He was one of the most hated emperors. He was killed by Cassius, captain of the Praetorian Guard.

Though historical accounts depict him as a brutal monster, engaging in horrendous and despicable behavior, the historical accounts originate from [[senator]]s who despised him.

Historical accounts depict Caligula as a monster, engaging in horrendous and despicable acts. In Caligula's defense, it should be noted that these accounts originate with [[senator]]s who felt a need to justify his murder.

It is possible to detect a certain cynical sense of humor in Caligula's acts of madness and tyranny. For example, it is said that he raised his favorite horse [[Incitatus]] to the office of [[consul]], the highest political office in Rome. This act could have been simply madness, but could also have simply been a way of putting the senate in its place.  

 

It is possible to detect a certain cynical sense of humor in Caligula's acts of madness and tyranny. For example, it is said that he raised his favorite horse [[Incitatus]] to the office of [[consul]], the highest political office in Rome. This story is dubious as the horse's name is not on the list of known consuls.

 

[https://youtu.be/PhiJcedqTjM Caligula With Mary Beard (Ancient Rome Documentary)]

[[Category:Roman Emperors]]

[[Category:Roman Emperors]]