The Roman Revolution

A New Issue

As tribune, Gaius reaffirmed Tiberius' Land Act and saw to it that it was finally implemented. It was also Gaius who first instituted bread rations for the Roman poor. His reforms increased his fame and made the Senate his bitter enemy.

But he went too far when he proposed citizenship for the Italian allies. Like his elder brother, Gaius had a political vision and a strong sense of justice. He heard the allies complaint that they all had to serve in the Roman armies, but most had no voice in the Assemblies or in the Senate. So he introduced a bill in 122 for their partial enfranchisement.

The Senate tried to woo the mob by outbidding Gaius in its social legislation. Gaius' popularity began to slip. Roman voters didn't want to enfranchise the Italians either, because it would water down their own votes. Moreover, even Gaius' marvelous oratory began to wear thin.

Another tribune, Drusus, a pawn of the Senate, defeated his bill.

History of Western Civilization

E.L. Skip Knox
Boise State University

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