Lucius Sergius Catilina

Lucius Sergius Catilina was born into a patrician family in Rome, during a time of significant political turmoil.

Catilina began his formal education in Rome, studying rhetoric, law, and military strategy, typical for a young nobleman.

Catilina joined the Roman army, serving in the Social War against the Italian allies, gaining valuable military experience.

Catilina married Aurelia Orestilla, a woman known for her beauty and influence, which bolstered his social and political standing.

Catilina served as a quaestor in Asia Minor, handling financial and administrative duties, which enhanced his political reputation.

Catilina was appointed praetor and governed the province of Africa, where he was accused of financial misconduct but escaped prosecution.

Catilina ran for consul for the first time but was defeated, possibly due to his controversial reputation and financial troubles.

Catilina was appointed governor of Sardinia, where he continued to face allegations of corruption and mismanagement.

Catilina ran for consul again but was defeated, this time by Cicero, further straining his relationship with the political establishment.

Facing severe financial difficulties, Catilina began to plot against the Roman state, seeking to overthrow the government.

Catilina formed a group of disaffected nobles and veterans to plan a coup against the Roman Senate and Cicero.

Despite his controversial reputation, Catilina was elected tribune of the plebs, a position that gave him significant political influence.

Cicero exposed Catilina's plot in a series of speeches, leading to the arrest and execution of several conspirators.

Fleeing from Roman authorities, Catilina and his followers retreated to Etruria to regroup and plan their next move.

Catilina and his forces were defeated by the Roman army at the Battle of Pistoria, leading to his death on the battlefield.