CICERO
Quo usque tandem abutere, Catilina, patientia nostra? Quam diu etiam furor iste tuus nos eludet? Quem ad finem sese effrenata tua audacia iactabit? Nihilne te nocturnum praesidium Palati, nihil urbis vigiliae, nihil timor populi, nihil consensus omnium bonorum, nihil hic munitissimus habendi senatus locus, nihil horum ora voltusque moverunt?
In Catilinam I, i.1
How long, O Catiline, will you abuse our patience? How long will your madness mock us? To what end will your unbridled audacity flaunt itself? Does the night guard of the Palatine, the city’s vigils, the fear of the people, the unity of all good men, this most fortified place for holding the Senate, the faces and expressions of these men here—do none of these move you?
Relevant for studying military leadership and wartime mobilisation, comparable to British strategic coordination under Lloyd George during Europe and the First World War (1871–1918).
Domus mea mihi non tam cara est quam res publica, nec mea salus tam pretiosa quam vestra libertas. Quare, Quirites, defendite rem publicam, defendite libertatem, et nolite pati coniurationem nefariam in vos et in rem publicam fieri.
In Catilinam I, ii.11
My house is not so dear to me as the republic, nor my safety so precious as your liberty. Therefore, citizens, defend the republic, defend liberty, and do not allow a wicked conspiracy to be formed against you and the state.
Relevant for studying emergency executive authority and civil liberties, comparable to defence regulation measures in British History during wartime crises.
O tempora, o mores! Senatus haec intellegit, consul videt; hic tamen vivit. Vivit? Immo vero etiam in senatum venit, fit publici consilii particeps, notat et designat oculis ad caedem unum quemque nostrum.
In Catilinam I, i.2
O the times! O the morals! The Senate understands this, the consul sees it; yet this man lives. Lives? Indeed, he even comes to the Senate, takes part in public deliberations, and marks each of us for slaughter with his gaze.
Relevant for studying authoritarian consolidation and political purges, comparable to state control mechanisms in The Soviet Union and post-Soviet Russia (1924–2000).
Quousque tandem, Quirites, coniurationem hanc nefariam patiemini? Nonne videtis rem publicam in summo periculo esse, et libertatem vestram in dubio versari?
In Catilinam I, iii.1
How long, citizens, will you endure this wicked conspiracy? Do you not see the republic in great danger and your liberty at stake?
Relevant for studying democratic fragility and factional polarisation, comparable to cabinet instability in European states in the inter-war years (1918–1939).
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Ego vero, Quirites, cum res publica in tanto periculo esset, non timui, sed omnia mea consilia in salutem vestram contuli.
In Catilinam I, iv.1
Indeed, citizens, when the republic was in such great danger, I did not fear, but devoted all my efforts to your safety.
Relevant for studying diplomatic summits and territorial treaties, comparable to alliance negotiations in Versailles to Berlin: Diplomacy in Europe (1919–1945).
Nam si vos, Quirites, in tanto periculo rei publicae mea consilia audiatis, non solum rem publicam servabimus, sed etiam libertatem vestram defendemus.
In Catilinam I, iv.3
For if you, citizens, heed my advice in such great danger to the republic, we will not only save the republic but also defend your liberty.
Relevant for studying post-war reconstruction and institutional integration, comparable to economic recovery programmes in Post-war western and northern Europe (1945–2000).
Ego vero, Quirites, cum Catilina rem publicam oppugnaret, non timui, sed omnia mea consilia in salutem vestram contuli.
In Catilinam I, iii.4
Indeed, citizens, when Catiline attacked the republic, I did not fear, but devoted all my efforts to your safety.
Relevant for studying ideological suppression and satellite state control, comparable to political realignment in Post-war central and eastern Europe (1945–2000).
Quid est, Quirites, quod amplius exspectatis? Res publica in summo periculo est, et Catilina cum suis coniuratis adhuc in urbe manet.
In Catilinam I, ii.7
What is it, citizens, that you still await? The republic is in great danger, and Catiline with his conspirators still remains in the city.
Relevant for studying autocratic collapse and revolutionary momentum, comparable to the fall of the Romanov dynasty in Imperial Russia, revolution and the establishment of the Soviet Union.
Quare, Quirites, si vultis rem publicam salvam esse, mea consilia audite, et Catilinam cum suis coniuratis ex urbe expellite.
In Catilinam I, ii.5
Therefore, citizens, if you wish the republic to be safe, heed my advice and expel Catiline with his conspirators from the city.
Relevant for studying military leadership and wartime mobilisation, comparable to British strategic coordination under Lloyd George during Europe and the First World War (1871–1918).
Ego vero, cum res publica in summo periculo esset, non timui, sed omnia mea consilia in salutem populi Romani contuli.
In Catilinam I, iii.6
Indeed, when the republic was in such great danger, I did not fear, but devoted all my efforts to the safety of the Roman people.
Relevant for studying emergency executive authority and civil liberties, comparable to defence regulation measures in British History during wartime crises.
Silent enim leges inter arma.
Pro Milone, iv.11
For laws are silent in the midst of arms.
Relevant for studying emergency powers and martial law during Europe and the First World War (1871–1918).
Cui bono?
Pro Roscio Amerino, xxx.84
Who stands to gain?
Relevant for studying political intelligence analysis and diplomatic motive in Versailles to Berlin: Diplomacy in Europe (1919–1945).
Historia vero testis temporum, lux veritatis, vita memoriae, magistra vitae, nuntia vetustatis.
De Oratore, II, ix.36
History is indeed the witness of the times, the light of truth, the life of memory, the teacher of life, the messenger of antiquity.
Relevant for studying historiography and national narrative formation in British History.
Esse oportet ut vivas, non vivere ut edas.
Rhetorica ad Herennium, IV, xxviii.39
One ought to eat to live, not live to eat.
Relevant for studying economic austerity and rationing policies in Post-war western and northern Europe (1945–2000).
Servitute postposita fertur ad libertatem.
Philippicae, IV, i.3
Setting slavery aside, it moves towards liberty.
Relevant for studying anti-autocratic revolutions in Imperial Russia, revolution and the establishment of the Soviet Union.
Nihil tam munitum quod non pecunia expugnari possit.
In Verrem, II, i.57
Nothing is so fortified that it cannot be taken by money.
Relevant for studying political corruption and financial scandals in European states in the inter-war years (1918–1939).
SALLUST
Nam postquam res publica in paucorum potentium ius atque dicionem concessit, semper illis reges, tetrarchae vectigales esse, populi, nationes stipendia pendere; ceteri omnes, strenui, boni, nobiles atque ignobiles, vulgus fuimus sine gratia, sine auctoritate, iis obnoxii, quibus, si res publica valeret, formidini essemus.
Bellum Catilinae, xx.7
For ever since the republic fell under the sway and jurisdiction of a few powerful men, kings and tetrarchs have been their tributaries, and nations have paid them taxes; all the rest of us, brave, good, noble and ignoble, have been a mere crowd without influence or authority, subservient to those to whom, if the state were healthy, we would be a terror.
Relevant for studying authoritarian consolidation and political purges, comparable to state control mechanisms in The Soviet Union and post-Soviet Russia (1924–2000).
Sed ubi labore atque iustitia res publica crevit, reges magni bello domiti, nationes ferae et populi ingentes vi subacti, Carthago aemula imperii Romani ab stirpe interiit, cuncta maria terraeque patebant.
Bellum Catilinae, x.1
But when the republic had grown through industry and justice, great kings were subdued in war, fierce nations and vast peoples brought low by force, and Carthage, the rival of Rome’s empire, was utterly destroyed, all seas and lands lay open.
Relevant for studying democratic fragility and factional polarisation, comparable to cabinet instability in European states in the inter-war years (1918–1939).
Quippe cum reges, principes, populi sub imperium populi Romani in deditionem venerint, terrae mariaque per orbem terrarum subiecta sint, et opes eorum in Romanos confluxerint, tamen avaritia et superbia in animis hominum invaluerunt, quae res publica dissensio et bella creavit.
Bellum Iugurthinum, ii.3
Since kings, leaders, and peoples surrendered to Rome’s dominion, and lands and seas across the world were subjected, with their wealth flowing to the Romans, yet greed and arrogance grew in men’s hearts, causing discord and wars in the republic.
Relevant for studying diplomatic summits and territorial treaties, comparable to alliance negotiations in Versailles to Berlin: Diplomacy in Europe (1919–1945).
Bellum scripturus sum, quod populus Romanus cum Iugurtha rege Numidarum gessit, primum quia magnum et atrox variaque victoria fuit, deinde quia tunc primum superbiae nobilitatis obviam itum est.
Bellum Iugurthinum, v.1
I am about to write of the war which the Roman people waged with Jugurtha, king of the Numidians, first because it was great and fierce and of changeable victory, and second because then for the first time resistance was offered to the insolence of the nobility.
Relevant for studying post-war reconstruction and institutional integration, comparable to economic recovery programmes in Post-war western and northern Europe (1945–2000).
At Gaius Marius, altus quembiam animum, ubi primum docilis ad militiam annos attigit, in castris se exercuit, non in Graeca facundia neque in urbanis munditiis.
Bellum Iugurthinum, lxiii.2
But Gaius Marius, possessing a lofty mind, as soon as he reached military age, exercised himself in camp, not in Greek eloquence nor in urban refinements.
Relevant for studying ideological suppression and satellite state control, comparable to political realignment in Post-war central and eastern Europe (1945–2000).
Postquam divitiae honori esse coepere et eas gloria, imperium, potentia sequebatur, hebescere virtus, paupertas probro haberi, innocentia pro malevolentia duci coepit.
Bellum Catilinae, xii.1
After wealth began to be held in honour and glory, authority, and power followed in its train, virtue began to lose its lustre, poverty was considered a disgrace, and blamelessness was taken for ill-will.
Relevant for studying autocratic collapse and revolutionary momentum, comparable to the fall of the Romanov dynasty in Imperial Russia, revolution and the establishment of the Soviet Union.
Igitur in tanta tamque corrupta civitate Catilina, id quod factu facillimum erat, omnium flagitiorum atque facinorum circum se tamquam stipatorum catervas habebat.
Bellum Catilinae, xiv.1
Therefore in so great and corrupt a city Catiline gathered around himself, as a bodyguard, troops of all the wicked and criminal men, a thing easiest to do.
Relevant for studying military leadership and wartime mobilisation, comparable to British strategic coordination under Lloyd George during Europe and the First World War (1871–1918).
Paucis periculum, ad omnis metus.
Historiae, I, 55
Danger touches a few, fear touches all.
Relevant for studying state terror and political repression in The Soviet Union and post-Soviet Russia (1924–2000).
Avaritia fidem, probitatem ceterasque artis bonas subvertit.
Bellum Catilinae, x.3
Greed subverts trust, integrity, and all other noble arts.
Relevant for studying economic collapse and systemic instability in European states in the inter-war years (1918–1939).
Simulatque se exercendi causa in agrum contulerat, venari, cursu cum aequalibus certare.
Bellum Iugurthinum, vi.1
As soon as he took to the field to exercise, he hunted and competed in running with his peers.
Relevant for studying elite military education and leadership formation in British History.
CÆSAR
Gallia est omnis divisa in partes tres, quarum unam incolunt Belgae, aliam Aquitani, tertiam qui ipsorum lingua Celtae, nostra Galli appellantur.
Commentarii de Bello Gallico, I, i.1
Gaul is a whole divided into three parts, one of which the Belgae inhabit, another the Aquitani, and the third those who in their own language are called Celts, in ours Gauls.
Relevant for studying emergency executive authority and civil liberties, comparable to defence regulation measures in British History during wartime crises.
Nostri acriter in hostes signo dato impetum fecerunt; hostes ubi primum equitatum nostrum viderunt, celeriter perturbati in fugam se coniecerunt.
Commentarii de Bello Gallico, V, xliv.1
Our men fiercely attacked the enemy when the signal was given; as soon as the enemy saw our cavalry, they were quickly thrown into confusion and fled.
Relevant for studying authoritarian consolidation and political purges, comparable to state control mechanisms in The Soviet Union and post-Soviet Russia (1924–2000).
Cum Galli in conspectum venissent, nostri equites in eos impetum fecerunt, et ita eos perturbaverunt ut statim in fugam se coniicerunt.
Commentarii de Bello Gallico, VII, lxvi.1
When the Gauls came into view, our cavalry charged them and so disordered them that they immediately fled.
Relevant for studying democratic fragility and factional polarisation, comparable to cabinet instability in European states in the inter-war years (1918–1939).
Fere libenter homines id quod volunt credunt.
Commentarii de Bello Gallico, III, xviii.6
Men generally believe what they wish to believe.
Relevant for studying diplomatic summits and territorial treaties, comparable to alliance negotiations in Versailles to Berlin: Diplomacy in Europe (1919–1945).
Vercingetorix, deditis armis, proiectis e muro armis, in deditionem venit; Caesar captivos incolumes servavit et in Gallia hiberna constituit.
Commentarii de Bello Gallico, VII, lxxxix.2
Vercingetorix, having surrendered his arms and thrown them from the wall, submitted; Caesar kept the captives unharmed and established winter quarters in Gaul.
Relevant for studying post-war reconstruction and institutional integration, comparable to economic recovery programmes in Post-war western and northern Europe (1945–2000).
Caesar, cognito consilio eorum, ad flumen Tamesim in fines Cassivellauni exercitum duxit; quod flumen uno omnino loco pedibus, atque hoc aegre, transiri potest.
Commentarii de Bello Gallico, V, xviii.1
Caesar, discovering their design, led his army to the river Thames into the territories of Cassivellaunus; which river can be crossed on foot in one place only, and that with difficulty.
Relevant for studying ideological suppression and satellite state control, comparable to political realignment in Post-war central and eastern Europe (1945–2000).
Alesia loci natura murisque munitissima videbatur, quam nisi obsidione expugnari non posse constabat.
Commentarii de Bello Gallico, VII, lxviii.1
Alesia appeared extremely well fortified by the nature of the ground and its walls, and it was clear that it could not be taken except by blockade.
Relevant for studying autocratic collapse and revolutionary momentum, comparable to the fall of the Romanov dynasty in Imperial Russia, revolution and the establishment of the Soviet Union.
Veni, vidi, vici.
De Vita Caesarum, Divus Iulius, xxxvii.2
I came, I saw, I conquered.
Relevant for studying rapid offensive doctrine and decisive campaigns in Europe and the First World War (1871–1918).
Horum omnium fortissimi sunt Belgae.
Commentarii de Bello Gallico, I, i.3
Of all these, the Belgae are the bravest.
Relevant for studying Belgian neutrality and military resistance during Europe and the First World War (1871–1918).
Cum esset in citeriore Gallia, crebri ad eum rumores afferebantur.
Commentarii de Bello Gallico, II, i.1
While he was in Nearer Gaul, frequent rumors were brought to him.
Relevant for studying frontier security and intelligence networks in Versailles to Berlin: Diplomacy in Europe (1919–1945).
Nihil nisi quod publicum esset auditurus.
Commentarii de Bello Civili, I, xix.4
Refusing to hear anything except what was public.
Relevant for studying open diplomacy versus secret treaties in Versailles to Berlin: Diplomacy in Europe (1919–1945).
LIVY
Ad illa mihi pro se quisque acriter intendat animum, quae vita, qui mores fuerint, per quos viros quibusque artibus domi militiaeque et partum et auctum imperium sit.
Ab Urbe Condita, Praefatio, 9
To these matters let each man direct his keen attention: what life and morals were like, through what men and by what arts at home and abroad power was won and extended.
Relevant for studying military leadership and wartime mobilisation, comparable to British strategic coordination under Lloyd George during Europe and the First World War (1871–1918).
Romanus sum, inquit, civis; Gaium Mucium vocant. Hostis hostem occidere volui, nec ad mortem minus animi est quam ad caedem fuit: et facere et pati fortia Romanum est.
Ab Urbe Condita, II, xii.9
"I am a Roman citizen," he said; "they call me Gaius Mucius. As an enemy I wished to kill the enemy, and I have no less courage to die than I had to kill: to do and to suffer bravely is the Roman way."
Relevant for studying emergency executive authority and civil liberties, comparable to defence regulation measures in British History during wartime crises.
Hannibal, peto pacem; eam peto, quia patriae et mihi usui esse potes; nec pacem tantum, sed fidem et societatem populi Romani peto.
Ab Urbe Condita, XXX, xxx.1
Hannibal, I ask for peace; I ask it because you can be useful to your country and to me; and I ask not peace alone, but the faith and alliance of the Roman people.
Relevant for studying authoritarian consolidation and political purges, comparable to state control mechanisms in The Soviet Union and post-Soviet Russia (1924–2000).
Cum Scipio Africanus in Africam venisset, Hannibalem apud Zamam vicit, et Carthaginem in dicionem populi Romani redegit.
Ab Urbe Condita, XXX, xxxv.1
When Scipio Africanus had arrived in Africa, he defeated Hannibal at Zama, and brought Carthage under the sway of the Roman people.
Relevant for studying democratic fragility and factional polarisation, comparable to cabinet instability in European states in the inter-war years (1918–1939).
Praeclarum hoc exemplum est libertatis conservandae, cum populus Romanus eiectis regibus liberi civitatis statum stabilivit.
Ab Urbe Condita, II, i.1
This is a glorious example of preserving liberty, when the Roman people, having driven out the kings, established the status of a free state.
Relevant for studying diplomatic summits and territorial treaties, comparable to alliance negotiations in Versailles to Berlin: Diplomacy in Europe (1919–1945).
Camillus, captis Veiis, in urbem triumphans rediit; cumque ab exsilio revocatus esset, Gallos e vestigio vicit et patriae parentis nomen accepit.
Ab Urbe Condita, V, xlix.1
Camillus, having captured Veii, returned in triumph to the city; and when recalled from exile, he instantly defeated the Gauls and earned the name of father of his country.
Relevant for studying post-war reconstruction and institutional integration, comparable to economic recovery programmes in Post-war western and northern Europe (1945–2000).
Postquam Sulla dictator factus est, proscriptiones et caedes per omnem urbem exarserunt, omniaque iura sublata sunt.
Ab Urbe Condita, Epitome, lxxxix.1
After Sulla was made dictator, proscriptions and slaughters raged through the entire city, and all laws were swept away.
Relevant for studying ideological suppression and satellite state control, comparable to political realignment in Post-war central and eastern Europe (1945–2000).
Pyrrhus, victis Romanis apud Heracleam, dixit: Si iterum eodem modo vicero, sine ullo milite in Epirum revertar.
Ab Urbe Condita, Epitome, XIII, i.1
Pyrrhus, having defeated the Romans at Heraclea, said: "If I conquer again in the same manner, I shall return to Epirus without a single soldier."
Relevant for studying autocratic collapse and revolutionary momentum, comparable to the fall of the Romanov dynasty in Imperial Russia, revolution and the establishment of the Soviet Union.
Vae victis.
Ab Urbe Condita, V, xlviii.9
Woe to the vanquished.
Relevant for studying harsh peace terms and reparations imposed in Versailles to Berlin: Diplomacy in Europe (1919–1945).
Pace suscepta, bellum omissum est.
Ab Urbe Condita, II, ix.1
Peace having been undertaken, war was laid aside.
Relevant for studying armistice negotiations ending Europe and the First World War (1871–1918).
Melius est pro patria mori quam vitam in servitute agere.
Ab Urbe Condita, IV, ii.5
It is better to die for one's country than to spend life in servitude.
Relevant for studying patriotic mobilisation and resistance movements in Post-war central and eastern Europe (145–2000).
Fides et constantia in rebus adversis maxime elucent.
Ab Urbe Condita, XXII, li.3
Loyalty and constancy shine brightest in adversity.
Relevant for studying home front resilience during wartime in British History.
VELLEIUS PATERCULUS
Nihil deinde optandum hominibus a diis immortalibus, nihil dii hominibus praestare possunt, nihil cogitatione concipi, nihil voto optari, quod non Augustus post reditum in urbem rei publicae populoque Romano terrarumque orbi praestiterit.
Historiae Romanae, II, lxxxix.2
There is nothing that men can desire of the immortal gods, nothing the gods can bestow upon men, nothing that can be conceived in thought or wished for in prayer, which Augustus after his return to the city did not grant to the republic, the Roman people, and the whole world.
Relevant for studying military leadership and wartime mobilisation, comparable to British strategic coordination under Lloyd George during Europe and the First World War (1871–1918).
Caius Caesar, vir saeculorum omnium clarissimus, postquam Gallias domuit, in urbem victor rediit, et civilibus bellis compositis imperium tenuit.
Historiae Romanae, II, lvi.1
Gaius Caesar, the most illustrious man of all ages, after subduing Gaul, returned victorious to the city, and having settled the civil wars, held supreme command.
Relevant for studying emergency executive authority and civil liberties, comparable to defence regulation measures in British History during wartime crises.
Pax Augusta cum cunctis regionibus sponte data esset, revocatus vigor legibus, fides foro, auctoritas senatui, maiestas imperio reddita est.
Historiae Romanae, II, lxxxix.3
When Augustan peace was voluntarily granted to all regions, vigour was restored to the laws, faith to the forum, authority to the Senate, and majesty to the empire.
Relevant for studying authoritarian consolidation and political purges, comparable to state control mechanisms in The Soviet Union and post-Soviet Russia (1924–2000).
Tiberius Caesar, quanto cum periculo publico educatus, tanta cum gloria imperium adiit, senatum maiestate, exercitus disciplina continentiaque rexit.
Historiae Romanae, II, cxxiv.1
Tiberius Caesar, educated under as much public danger as he assumed power with glory, ruled the Senate with majesty and the armies with discipline and restraint.
Relevant for studying democratic fragility and factional polarisation, comparable to cabinet instability in European states in the inter-war years (1918–1939).
Gaius Caesar Caligula, princeps exoptatissimus, mox in perniciem cunctorum conversus, immanitate atque intemperantia imperium polluit.
Historiae Romanae, II, cxxix.1
Gaius Caesar Caligula, a most eagerly desired prince, soon turning to the ruin of all, polluted the empire with savage cruelty and excess.
Relevant for studying diplomatic summits and territorial treaties, comparable to alliance negotiations in Versailles to Berlin: Diplomacy in Europe (1919–1945).
Lucius Sulla, vir in bello nobilissimus et pacis moderator immodicus, post victoriam proscriptione primus exemplum saevitiae in cives ostendit.
Historiae Romanae, II, xxviii.1
Lucius Sulla, a man most noble in war and an immoderate regulator of peace, was the first after victory to show an example of cruelty against citizens by proscription.
Relevant for studying post-war reconstruction and institutional integration, comparable to economic recovery programmes in Post-war western and northern Europe (1945–2000).
Gaius Marius, natus equestri loco, vir bello fortissimus, otio immodicus, consulatus suos non tam gloria quam ambitione numeravit.
Historiae Romanae, II, xi.1
Gaius Marius, born of equestrian rank, a man most valiant in war and restless in peace, counted his consulships not so much by glory as by ambition.
Relevant for studying ideological suppression and satellite state control, comparable to political realignment in Post-war central and eastern Europe (1945–2000).
TACITUS
Urbem Romam a principio reges habuere; libertatem et consulatum L. Brutus instituit. Dictaturae ad tempus sumebantur; neque decemviralis potestas ultra biennium, neque tribunorum militum consulare ius diu valuit.
Annales, I, i.1
Rome from the beginning was ruled by kings; Lucius Brutus established liberty and the consulship. Dictatorships were assumed for temporary needs; neither did decemviral power last beyond two years, nor did consular authority of military tribunes endure long.
Relevant for studying autocratic collapse and revolutionary momentum, comparable to the fall of the Romanov dynasty in Imperial Russia, revolution and the establishment of the Soviet Union.
Tiberius cuncta per consules incipiebat, tamquam vetere re publica et dubius imperandi: ne edictum quidem, quo patres in curiam vocabat, nisi tribuniciae potestatis praescripto emisit.
Annales, I, vii.3
Tiberius initiated everything through the consuls, as if the old republic remained and he were hesitant to command: he did not even issue the edict summoning the senators to the curia except under the title of tribunician power.
Relevant for studying military leadership and wartime mobilisation, comparable to British strategic coordination under Lloyd George during Europe and the First World War (1871–1918).
Nero matrem interfici iubet, diu meditatus scelus, postquam cuncta periculi et audaciae rationes ad exitum produxerat.
Annales, XIV, vii.1
Nero ordered his mother to be killed, having long pondered the crime after carrying out all schemes of danger and audacity to their conclusion.
Relevant for studying emergency executive authority and civil liberties, comparable to defence regulation measures in British History during wartime crises.
Domitianus cunctos nobilissimos viros interfici vel in exsilium agi iussit, donec saevitia eius civitatem in silentium et metum redegit.
Annales, XV, xlv.1
Domitian commanded all the most noble men to be executed or driven into exile, until his cruelty reduced the state to silence and terror.
Relevant for studying authoritarian consolidation and political purges, comparable to state control mechanisms in The Soviet Union and post-Soviet Russia (1924–2000).
Galba, ingenio medio magis quam bono, maiore ad virtutem spe quam facultate, imperium vetere severitate rexit, sed brevi deiectus est.
Historiae, I, xlix.2
Galba, of an average rather than good disposition, with greater hope for virtue than capacity, ruled the empire with ancient severity, but was quickly overthrown.
Relevant for studying democratic fragility and factional polarisation, comparable to cabinet instability in European states in the inter-war years (1918–1939).
Otho luxu et desidia corruptus, invasit imperium per scelus, sed non minore virtute quam audacia in acie dimicavit.
Historiae, I, xxii.1
Otho, corrupted by luxury and sloth, seized the empire through crime, but fought in battle with no less courage than audacity.
Relevant for studying diplomatic summits and territorial treaties, comparable to alliance negotiations in Versailles to Berlin: Diplomacy in Europe (1919–1945).
Vitellius, ventri et crapulae deditus, gulam atque intemperantiam exercitui ostendit, donec militum animi ad rebellionem accensi sunt.
Historiae, II, lxii.1
Vitellius, devoted to gluttony and debauchery, displayed greed and excess to his army, until the soldiers' minds were inflamed to rebellion.
Relevant for studying post-war reconstruction and institutional integration, comparable to economic recovery programmes in Post-war western and northern Europe (1945–2000).
Vespasianus reipublicae fessae remedium attulit, severitate et liberalitate temperatus, pacem civibus et disciplinam militibus restituit.
Historiae, IV, i.1
Vespasian brought relief to the exhausted republic, tempered with severity and generosity, restoring peace to citizens and discipline to soldiers.
Relevant for studying ideological suppression and satellite state control, comparable to political realignment in Post-war central and eastern Europe (1945–2000).
Titus, amor ac deliciae generis humani appellatus, tanta facilitate et liberalitate fuit ut neminem tristem a se dimiserit.
Historiae, IV, lxxxvi.1
Titus, called the delight and darling of the human race, possessed such ease and generosity that he sent no one away sad.
Relevant for studying autocratic collapse and revolutionary momentum, comparable to the fall of the Romanov dynasty in Imperial Russia, revolution and the establishment of the Soviet Union.
Domitianus primo fallaci moderatione simulationeque virtutis usus est, mox in immanissimam crudelitatem prorupit.
Historiae, V, i.1
Domitian at first employed treacherous moderation and the pretence of virtue, but soon burst forth into the most savage cruelty.
Relevant for studying military leadership and wartime mobilisation, comparable to British strategic coordination under Lloyd George during Europe and the First World War (1871–1918).
Nerva Caesar divus, res olim dissociabiles miscuit, principatum ac libertatem, auxitque felicitatem temporum.
Agricola, iii.1
The divine Nerva Caesar united things once incompatible, the principate and liberty, and increased the happiness of the times.
Relevant for studying emergency executive authority and civil liberties, comparable to defence regulation measures in British History during wartime crises.
Traianus imperator, reipublicae decus et incrementum, cunctis provinciis iustitia et fortitudine providit.
Historiae, V, xxix.1
Trajan the emperor, the glory and enlargement of the state, provided for all provinces with justice and fortitude.
Relevant for studying authoritarian consolidation and political purges, comparable to state control mechanisms in The Soviet Union and post-Soviet Russia (1924–2000).
Hadrianus cuncta imperii itinera peragravit, provincias manu sua fovit, opera publica orbi terrarum adiecit.
Historiae, V, xlvi.1
Hadrian travelled all the highways of the empire, cherished the provinces with his own hand, and added public works to the whole world.
Relevant for studying democratic fragility and factional polarisation, comparable to cabinet instability in European states in the inter-war years (1918–1939).
Antoninus Pius, innocentia et mansuetudine clarissimus, pacem orbi terrarum sine armis praestitit.
Historiae, V, lxii.1
Antoninus Pius, most famous for integrity and gentleness, maintained peace for the world without force of arms.
Relevant for studying diplomatic summits and territorial treaties, comparable to alliance negotiations in Versailles to Berlin: Diplomacy in Europe (1919–1945).
Marcus Antoninus, philosophiae et militiae studio pariter insignis, graves Germanorum motus mira constantia repressit.
Historiae, V, lxxvi.1
Marcus Antoninus, equally distinguished in philosophy and military skill, suppressed severe German uprisings with remarkable constancy.
Relevant for studying post-war reconstruction and institutional integration, comparable to economic recovery programmes in Post-war western and northern Europe (1945–2000).
Commodus, a paterna virtute degener, luxuria ac gladatorio furore rem publicam dedecoravit.
Historiae, V, xcii.1
Commodus, degenerating from his father's virtue, disgraced the republic with luxury and gladiatorial madness.
Relevant for studying ideological suppression and satellite state control, comparable to political realignment in Post-war central and eastern Europe (1945–2000).
Pertinax, disciplinae militaris restitutor, senatus favore electus, mox militum furore caesus est.
Historiae, V, civ.1
Pertinax, the restorer of military discipline, elected with the Senate's favour, was soon slain by the fury of the soldiers.
Relevant for studying autocratic collapse and revolutionary momentum, comparable to the fall of the Romanov dynasty in Imperial Russia, revolution and the establishment of the Soviet Union.
Didius Iulianus, pecunia imperium nactus, a militibus et plebe desertus, foedum exitum habuit.
Historiae, V, cviii.1
Didius Julianus, having acquired the empire with money, abandoned by soldiers and plebeians alike, met a foul end.
Relevant for studying military leadership and wartime mobilisation, comparable to British strategic coordination under Lloyd George during Europe and the First World War (1871–1918).
Severus, acer et pertinax, gestis bellis civilibus externisque imperium orbi terrarum vindicavit.
Historiae, V, cxx.1
Severus, fierce and resolute, having waged civil and foreign wars, secured supreme power over the world.
Relevant for studying emergency executive authority and civil liberties, comparable to defence regulation measures in British History during wartime crises.
Caracalla, fratre interfecto, saevitia et tributorum gravitate populum Romanum oppressit.
Historiae, V, cxxxii.1
Caracalla, having slain his brother, oppressed the Roman people with cruelty and heavy taxation.
Relevant for studying authoritarian consolidation and political purges, comparable to state control mechanisms in The Soviet Union and post-Soviet Russia (1924–2000).
In silentio et spe fortitudo nostra.
Historiae, IV, xii.2
In silence and hope lies our strength.
Relevant for studying passive resistance under totalitarian rule in Post-war central and eastern Europe (1945–2000).
Corruptissima re publica plurimae leges.
Annales, III, xxvii.3
In the most corrupt state are the most laws.
Relevant for studying bureaucratic hyper-regulation in European states in the inter-war years (1918–1939).
Omnium consensu capax imperii nisi imperasset.
Historiae, I, xlix.4
He would have been thought by all capable of ruling, had he not ruled.
Relevant for studying political misjudgement and executive failure in British History.
Fingunt creduntque.
Annales, V, x.2
They invent and believe.
Relevant for studying state propaganda and disinformation campaigns in The Soviet Union and post-Soviet Russia (1924–2000).
Ratio causaeque in occulto.
Annales, II, luxxviii.1
The reason and causes were kept in secret.
Relevant for studying covert intelligence and clandestine operations in Versailles to Berlin: Diplomacy in Europe (1919–1945).
SUETONIUS
Urbem neque pro maiestate imperii ornatam et inundationibus incendiisque obnoxiam excoluit adeo, ut iure sit gloriatus marmoream se relinquere, quam latericiam accepisset.
De Vita Caesarum, Divus Augustus, xxviii.3
He so beautified the city, which had not been adorned proportionally to the majesty of the empire and was exposed to floods and fires, that he could justly boast he found it built of brick and left it made of marble.
Relevant for studying democratic fragility and factional polarisation, comparable to cabinet instability in European states in the inter-war years (1918–1939).
Tiberius cuncta per consules et senatum agere simulabat, dum ipse e secessu Caprearum cuncta arbitrio regebat.
De Vita Caesarum, Tiberius, xxiv.1
Tiberius pretended to conduct all business through the consuls and Senate, while he himself ruled everything by his own will from his retreat at Capri.
Relevant for studying diplomatic summits and territorial treaties, comparable to alliance negotiations in Versailles to Berlin: Diplomacy in Europe (1919–1945).
Gaius Caligula, oblitus principis et deum se iactans, totus in immanitatem et luxuriae prodigia delapsus est.
De Vita Caesarum, Caligula, xxii.1
Gaius Caligula, forgetting he was a prince and boasting himself a god, sank entirely into cruelty and monstrous luxury.
Relevant for studying post-war reconstruction and institutional integration, comparable to economic recovery programmes in Post-war western and northern Europe (1945–2000).
Claudius imperium incertum firmavit, iudiciis legendisque senatoribus operam dedit, opera publica magnifica perfecit.
De Vita Caesarum, Divus Claudius, x.1
Claudius secured his uncertain power, gave attention to judicial trials and selecting senators, and completed magnificent public works.
Relevant for studying ideological suppression and satellite state control, comparable to political realignment in Post-war central and eastern Europe (1945–2000).
Nero formam urbis novam constituit, sed incendio Romae orto spectaculum cladis e turri Maecenatis laetus inspexit.
De Vita Caesarum, Nero, xxxviii.1
Nero established a new design for the city, but when the fire of Rome broke out, he joyfully watched the spectacle of destruction from the tower of Maecenas.
Relevant for studying autocratic collapse and revolutionary momentum, comparable to the fall of the Romanov dynasty in Imperial Russia, revolution and the establishment of the Soviet Union.
Galba maiore severitate quam gratia rem publicam rexit, militibus donativum negans, quo facto cito periit.
De Vita Caesarum, Galba, xiv.1
Galba ruled the state with greater severity than favour, denying the soldiers a bounty, by which act he quickly perished.
Relevant for studying military leadership and wartime mobilisation, comparable to British strategic coordination under Lloyd George during Europe and the First World War (1871–1918).
Otho luxuria et ambitione notus, interfecto Galba, imperium occupavit, sed clade apud Bedriacum accepta manu sua periit.
De Vita Caesarum, Otho, vii.1
Otho, noted for luxury and ambition, seized power after Galba was slain, but after suffering defeat at Bedriacum died by his own hand.
Relevant for studying emergency executive authority and civil liberties, comparable to defence regulation measures in British History during wartime crises.
Vitellius luxuriae et gulae gnarus, intra paucos menses immensa milia sestertium in conviviis effudit.
De Vita Caesarum, Vitellius, xiii.1
Vitellius, skilled in luxury and gluttony, squandered immense millions of sesterces on banquets within a few months.
Relevant for studying authoritarian consolidation and political purges, comparable to state control mechanisms in The Soviet Union and post-Soviet Russia (1924–2000).
Vespasianus exhaustas fisco et aerario opes restituit, disciplinae militaris et iustitiae vindex firmissimus fuit.
De Vita Caesarum, Divus Vespasianus, ix.1
Vespasian restored the exhausted treasury and public funds, standing as a most resolute defender of military discipline and justice.
Relevant for studying democratic fragility and factional polarisation, comparable to cabinet instability in European states in the inter-war years (1918–1939).
Titus tanto amore populi vixerit ut deliciae humani generis sit dictus, clementia et munificentia insignis.
De Vita Caesarum, Divus Titus, viii.1
Titus lived with such love of the people that he was called the delight of the human race, distinguished by clemency and generosity.
Relevant for studying diplomatic summits and territorial treaties, comparable to alliance negotiations in Versailles to Berlin: Diplomacy in Europe (1919–1945).
Domitianus superbia et saevitia invisus, dominum se et deum appellari iussit, donec coniuratione suorum interfectus est.
De Vita Caesarum, Domitianus, xiii.1
Domitian, hated for pride and cruelty, ordered himself to be addressed as lord and god, until he was slain in a conspiracy of his own household.
Relevant for studying post-war reconstruction and institutional integration, comparable to economic recovery programmes in Post-war western and northern Europe (1945–2000).
Nerva accepto imperio libertatem restituit, senatum fovit, Traianum filium et successorem adoptavit.
De Vita Caesarum, Nerva, ii.1
Nerva, having received supreme power, restored liberty, cherished the Senate, and adopted Trajan as his son and successor.
Relevant for studying ideological suppression and satellite state control, comparable to political realignment in Post-war central and eastern Europe (1945–2000).
Traianus gloria militari et civili moderatione excellens, finibus imperii propagatis, optimus princeps est cognominatus.
De Vita Caesarum, Traianus, v.1
Trajan, excelling in military glory and civil moderation, having extended the borders of the empire, was surnamed the best of princes.
Relevant for studying autocratic collapse and revolutionary momentum, comparable to the fall of the Romanov dynasty in Imperial Russia, revolution and the establishment of the Soviet Union.
Hadrianus pacem per totum orbem terrarum confirmavit, disciplinas militares exercuit, liberalibus artibus unice favit.
De Vita Caesarum, Hadrianus, ix.1
Hadrian confirmed peace throughout the whole world, maintained military disciplines, and uniquely favoured the liberal arts.
Relevant for studying military leadership and wartime mobilisation, comparable to British strategic coordination under Lloyd George during Europe and the First World War (1871–1918).
Festina lente.
De Vita Caesarum, Divus Augustus, xxv.4
Make haste slowly.
Relevant for studying cautious economic modernization policies in Post-war western and northern Europe (1945–2000).
Odor lucri bene olet ex re qualibet.
De Vita Caesarum, Divus Vespasianus, xxiii.3
The smell of gain is good from any source.
Relevant for studying revenue extraction and state taxation models in British History.
Qualis artifex pereo!
De Vita Caesarum, Nero, xlix.1
What an artist dies in me!
Relevant for studying autocratic vanity and regime collapse in Imperial Russia, revolution and the establishment of the Soviet Union.
Amicos neque facilis admisit et constantissime retinuit.
De Vita Caesarum, Divus Augustus, lxvi.1
He did not easily admit friends, but retained them most constantly.
Relevant for studying inner cabinet loyalty and patronage networks in European states in the inter-war years (1918–1939).
PLINY THE YOUNGER
Olim pro re publica pugnabatur; nunc pro nobis. Tanta est enim principis nostri humanitas, ut non nos illi, sed ille nobis servire videatur.
Epistulae, X, i.1
Once men fought for the republic; now for us. For such is the humanity of our prince, that he seems not we to serve him, but he to serve us.
Relevant for studying emergency executive authority and civil liberties, comparable to defence regulation measures in British History during wartime crises.
Nubem inusitata et magnitudine et specie repente apparuisse; quae ex longinquo intuentibus incertum ex quo monte — Vesuvisum postea cognitum est — oriebatur.
Epistulae, VI, xvi.5
A cloud appeared, of unusual size and appearance; to those viewing it from a distance it was uncertain from which mountain it arose—it was later known to be Vesuvius.
Relevant for studying authoritarian consolidation and political purges, comparable to state control mechanisms in The Soviet Union and post-Soviet Russia (1924–2000).
Traianus imperator cunctas provincias lustravit, iustitiam reformavit, inopia laborantibus opem latam providit.
Epistulae, X, xvii.1
Trajan the emperor surveyed all the provinces, reformed justice, and provided aid to those suffering from want.
Relevant for studying democratic fragility and factional polarisation, comparable to cabinet instability in European states in the inter-war years (1918–1939).
Cum ego in senatu essem, vidi quomodo Traianus senatum honoraret, et ita se gessit ut omnes eum admirarentur.
Epistulae, X, iii.1
When I was in the Senate, I saw how Trajan honoured the Senate, and he conducted himself so that all admired him.
Relevant for studying diplomatic summits and territorial treaties, comparable to alliance negotiations in Versailles to Berlin: Diplomacy in Europe (1919–1945).
Domitianus saevissimus tyannus, omnes optimos cives suspicione et calumnia evertit, donec iusto exitu decessit.
Epistulae, III, vii.1
Domitian, a most savage tyrant, destroyed all the best citizens through suspicion and slander, until he died a deserved death.
Relevant for studying post-war reconstruction and institutional integration, comparable to economic recovery programmes in Post-war western and northern Europe (1945–2000).
Populus Romanus Traianum principem non timore sed amore sequebatur, quod eius virtus et frugalitas omnibus innotuerat.
Epistulae, X, xviii.1
The Roman people followed Prince Trajan not out of fear but love, because his virtue and frugality were known to all.
Relevant for studying ideological suppression and satellite state control, comparable to political realignment in Post-war central and eastern Europe (1945–2000).
Nullus liber est tam malus ut non aliqua parte prosit.
Epistulae, III, v.10
There is no book so bad that it is not profitable in some part.
Relevant for studying censorship and literary control in Post-war central and eastern Europe (1945–2000).
Oftimus est qui aliis ignoscit tamquam ipse cotidie peccet.
Epistulae, VIII, xxii.1
He is best who pardons others as though he himself sinned daily.
Relevant for studying political amnesty and post-conflict reconciliation in Post-war western and northern Europe (1945–2000).
AMMIANUS MARCELLINUS
Julianu, vir studio liberalium artium et bellica gloria clarus, Gallias a barbarorum vastitate vindicavit.
Res Gestae, XXII, i.1
Julian, a man famous for the study of liberal arts and military glory, rescued Gaul from the devastation of barbarians.
Relevant for studying autocratic collapse and revolutionary momentum, comparable to the fall of the Romanov dynasty in Imperial Russia, revolution and the establishment of the Soviet Union.
Valentinianus, princeps severus et vigilan, fines imperii vallis et castellis communivit, leges aequas promulgavit.
Res Gestae, XXX, i.1
Valentinian, a stern and vigilant prince, fortified the borders of the empire with ramparts and forts, and promulgated equal laws.
Relevant for studying military leadership and wartime mobilisation, comparable to British strategic coordination under Lloyd George during Europe and the First World War (1871–1918).
Nec ulla annalibus praeter Cannensem tantis cum cladibus conparatur strages, qua Valens imperator cum exercitu cecidit.
Res Gestae, XXXI, xiii.19
Nor is any slaughter in the annals, except that of Cannae, compared with such disasters, in which Emperor Valens fell with his army.
Relevant for studying emergency executive authority and civil liberties, comparable to defence regulation measures in British History during wartime crises.
Constantius, imperator cautus et suspicax, internas factiones acerrime repressit et imperium in orientem propagavit.
Res Gestae, XXI, xvi.1
Constantius, a cautious and suspicious emperor, most fiercely suppressed internal factions and extended authority over the East.
Relevant for studying authoritarian consolidation and political purges, comparable to state control mechanisms in The Soviet Union and post-Soviet Russia (1924–2000).
Theodosius, princeps virtute ac fide conspicuus, barbaros vicit, pacem provincis restituit.
Res Gestae, XXIX, i.1
Theodosius, a prince conspicuous for valour and faith, conquered the barbarians and restored peace to the provinces.
Relevant for studying democratic fragility and factional polarisation, comparable to cabinet instability in European states in the inter-war years (1918–1939).
Jovianus, accepto post Iuliani mortem imperio, necessitate compulsus pacem cum Persis fecit.
Res Gestae, XXV, vii.1
Jovian, having assumed supreme command after Julian's death, compelled by necessity made peace with the Persians.
Relevant for studying diplomatic summits and territorial treaties, comparable to alliance negotiations in Versailles to Berlin: Diplomacy in Europe (1919–1945).
Gratianus, iuvenis moribus bonis sed consiliis alienis obnoxius, rebellione militum oppressus periit.
Res Gestae, XXXI, x.1
Gratian, a youth of good character but subject to foreign counsel, perished overwhelmed by a mutiny of his troops.
Relevant for studying post-war reconstruction and institutional integration, comparable to economic recovery programmes in Post-war western and northern Europe (1945–2000).
Julianu in conflictu cum Persis hasta saucius, inter manus militum fortissimam animam efflavit.
Res Gestae, XXV, iii.1
Julian, wounded by a spear in conflict with the Persians, breathed forth his brave spirit in the hands of his soldiers.
Relevant for studying ideological suppression and satellite state control, comparable to political realignment in Post-war central and eastern Europe (1945–2000).
Militem non terrore sed exemplo ad labores incitabat.
Res Gestae, XXV, iv.12
He urged the soldier to toil not by terror but by example.
Relevant for studying frontline leadership styles in British History during the Second World War.
Veritas quandoque laborat, opprimi non potest.
Res Gestae, XXVII, ix.4
Truth sometimes suffers, but it cannot be crushed.
Relevant for studying underground samizdat literature in Post-war central and eastern Europe (1945–2000).
HISTORIA AUGUSTA
Animula vagula blandula, hospes comesque corporis, quo nunc abibis in loca pallidula rigida nudula, nec ut soles dabis iocos!
Vita Hadriani, xxv.9
Little soul, wandering and charming, guest and companion of the body, into what places will you now depart, pale, stiff, and bare, no longer giving jokes as was your wont!
Relevant for studying autocratic collapse and revolutionary momentum, comparable to the fall of the Romanov dynasty in Imperial Russia, revolution and the establishment of the Soviet Union.
Antoninus Pius tanta clementia ac iustitia rexit ut nullum civem sine causa puniverit et pacem ubique servaverit.
Vita Antonini Pii, vii.1
Antoninus Pius ruled with such clemency and justice that he punished no citizen without cause and preserved peace everywhere.
Relevant for studying military leadership and wartime mobilisation, comparable to British strategic coordination under Lloyd George during Europe and the First World War (1871–1918).
Marcus Antoninus philosophiae praeceptis imbutus, in bellis Germanicis et Sarmaticis summam fortitudinem praestitit.
Vita Marci Aurelii, xvii.1
Marcus Antoninus, imbued with the precepts of philosophy, showed supreme fortitude in the German and Sarmatian wars.
Relevant for studying emergency executive authority and civil liberties, comparable to defence regulation measures in British History during wartime crises.
Commodus a patris sanctissimis moribus degressus, gladiatorum spectaculis et saevitia se maculavit.
Vita Commodi, vii.1
Commodus, departing from his father's most holy character, stained himself with gladiatorial shows and cruelty.
Relevant for studying authoritarian consolidation and political purges, comparable to state control mechanisms in The Soviet Union and post-Soviet Russia (1924–2000).
Pertinax, e praefectura urbis ad imperium vocatus, disciplina reformata brevi tempore a militibus interfectus est.
Vita Pertinacis, x.1
Pertinax, called to supreme power from the prefecture of the city, having reformed discipline was slain by soldiers in a short time.
Relevant for studying democratic fragility and factional polarisation, comparable to cabinet instability in European states in the inter-war years (1918–1939).
Elagabalus, sacerdos Solis, luxuria et turpitudine cunctos antecessit, donec a militibus in Tiberim praecipitatus est.
Vita Elagabali, xiv.1
Elagabalus, priest of the Sun, surpassed all in luxury and shame, until he was cast into the Tiber by the soldiers.
Relevant for studying diplomatic summits and territorial treaties, comparable to alliance negotiations in Versailles to Berlin: Diplomacy in Europe (1919–1945).
Alexander Severus, matris Mammate consiliis usus, iustitia et disciplina imperium renovavit.
Vita Severi Alexandri, xxv.1
Alexander Severus, employing the advice of his mother Mammaea, renewed the empire with justice and discipline.
Relevant for studying post-war reconstruction and institutional integration, comparable to economic recovery programmes in Post-war western and northern Europe (1945–2000).
Maximinus Thrax, ex corpore immani et fortitudine bellica ad imperium evectus, saevitia sua cunctis terrori fuit.
Vita Maximini, viii.1
Maximinus Thrax, raised to supreme power from his huge body and military valor, was a terror to all by his cruelty.
Relevant for studying ideological suppression and satellite state control, comparable to political realignment in Post-war central and eastern Europe (1945–2000).
Gordianus, senex sanctissimus, a provincialibus adversus Maximinum imperator appellatus, brevi fato functus est.
Vita Gordianorum, ix.1
Gordian, a most venerable old man, acclaimed emperor by the provincials against Maximinus, met a swift fate.
Relevant for studying autocratic collapse and revolutionary momentum, comparable to the fall of the Romanov dynasty in Imperial Russia, revolution and the establishment of the Soviet Union.
Philippus Arabs, saeculares ludos millesimo urbis anno ingenti apparatu celebravit.
Vita Philippi Arabis, v.1
Philippus Arabs celebrated the secular games in the thousandth year of the city with immense grandeur.
Relevant for studying military leadership and wartime mobilisation, comparable to British strategic coordination under Lloyd George during Europe and the First World War (1871–1918).
Decius imperator, pristinae disciplinae vindex, in bello Gothico fortiter pugnans cecidit.
Vita Decii, iii.1
Emperor Decius, defender of ancient discipline, fell fighting bravely in the Gothic war.
Relevant for studying emergency executive authority and civil liberties, comparable to defence regulation measures in British History during wartime crises.
Nemini se victum nisi a diis suis fateri.
Vita Aureliani, xxx.4
Confessing that he was conquered by none except his own gods.
Relevant for studying authoritarian consolidation and political purges, comparable to state control mechanisms in The Soviet Union and post-Soviet Russia (1924–2000).
Gallienus, relictis imperii curis, in luxuria et voluptatibus tempus consumpsit, dum provinciae barbari vastabant.
Vita Gallieni, v.1
Gallienus, abandoning the cares of empire, spent his time in luxury and pleasure while barbarians ravaged the provinces.
Relevant for studying democratic fragility and factional polarisation, comparable to cabinet instability in European states in the inter-war years (1918–1939).
Claudius Gothicus ingenti victoria Gothos ad Danubium stravit et libertatem provincis reddidit.
Vita Claudii, vii.1
Claudius Gothicus with a huge victory shattered the Goths at the Danube and restored freedom to the provinces.
Relevant for studying diplomatic summits and territorial treaties, comparable to alliance negotiations in Versailles to Berlin: Diplomacy in Europe (1919–1945).
Aurelianus, restitutor orbis appellatus, Zenobiam vicit, Gallias recepit, muros urbi circumdedit.
Vita Aureliani, i.1
Aurelian, called restorer of the world, defeated Zenobia, recovered Gaul, and encircled the city with walls.
Relevant for studying post-war reconstruction and institutional integration, comparable to economic recovery programmes in Post-war western and northern Europe (1945–2000).
Tacitus imperator, senatui reverentiam reddidit et exemplum antiquae moderationis praebuit.
Vita Taciti, vi.1
Emperor Tacitus restored reverence to the Senate and provided an example of ancient moderation.
Relevant for studying ideological suppression and satellite state control, comparable to political realignment in Post-war central and eastern Europe (1945–2000).
Probus imperator, bellis gestis, vineas per Galliam et Pannoniam ab exercitu plantari iussit.
Vita Probi, x.1
Emperor Probus, having waged wars, ordered vineyards across Gaul and Pannonia to be planted by the army.
Relevant for studying autocratic collapse and revolutionary momentum, comparable to the fall of the Romanov dynasty in Imperial Russia, revolution and the establishment of the Soviet Union.
Carus imperator, Persis victis, ultra Tigrim castra movit, ubi fulmine ictus periit.
Vita Cari, viii.1
Emperor Carus, having defeated the Persians, moved his camp beyond the Tigris, where he died struck by lightning.
Relevant for studying military leadership and wartime mobilisation, comparable to British strategic coordination under Lloyd George during Europe and the First World War (1871–1918).
Diocletianus cum Maximiano imperium partitus, tetrarchiam ad defendendum orbem terrarum constituit.
Vita Diocletiani, ix.1
Diocletian, having shared supreme command with Maximian, established the tetrarchy to defend the world.
Relevant for studying emergency executive authority and civil liberties, comparable to defence regulation measures in British History during wartime crises.
Constantinus, vicit Maxentium ad pontem Mulvium, fidem Christianam publice fovit, novam urbem condidit.
Vita Constantini, xxi.1
Constantine defeated Maxentius at the Milvian Bridge, publicly favoured the Christian faith, and founded a new city.
Relevant for studying authoritarian consolidation and political purges, comparable to state control mechanisms in The Soviet Union and post-Soviet Russia (1924–2000).
Maximianus Herculeus in Gallia et Italia res bellicas strenue gessit, Diocletiano fidissimus collega.
Vita Maximiani, viii.1
Maximian Herculeus vigorously conducted war in Gaul and Italy, a most faithful colleague to Diocletian.
Relevant for studying democratic fragility and factional polarisation, comparable to cabinet instability in European states in the inter-war years (1918–1939).
Constantius Chlorus mansuetudine et iustitia clarus, Britanniam reipublicae restituit.
Vita Constantii Chlori, x.1
Constantius Chlorus, famous for gentleness and justice, restored Britain to the state.
Relevant for studying diplomatic summits and territorial treaties, comparable to alliance negotiations in Versailles to Berlin: Diplomacy in Europe (1919–1945).
Galerius Caesar saevitia in Christianos notus, in Illyrico bellis fortiter gestis imperium auxit.
Vita Galerii, ix.1
Galerius Caesar, noted for cruelty toward Christians, enlarged the empire through brave warfare in Illyricum.
Relevant for studying post-war reconstruction and institutional integration, comparable to economic recovery programmes in Post-war western and northern Europe (1945–2000).
Licinius cum Constantino imperium tenuit, sed mox discordia orta ad Cibalas victus est.
Vita Licinii, xx.1
Licinius held joint power with Constantine, but soon after discord arose he was defeated at Cibalae.
Relevant for studying ideological suppression and satellite state control, comparable to political realignment in Post-war central and eastern Europe (1945–2000).
Quo usque tandem abutere, Catilina, patientia nostra? Quam diu etiam furor iste tuus nos eludet? Quem ad finem sese effrenata tua audacia iactabit? Nihilne te nocturnum praesidium Palati, nihil urbis vigiliae, nihil timor populi, nihil consensus omnium bonorum, nihil hic munitissimus habendi senatus locus, nihil horum ora voltusque moverunt?
In Catilinam I, i.1
How long, O Catiline, will you abuse our patience? How long will your madness mock us? To what end will your unbridled audacity flaunt itself? Does the night guard of the Palatine, the city’s vigils, the fear of the people, the unity of all good men, this most fortified place for holding the Senate, the faces and expressions of these men here—do none of these move you?
Relevant for studying military leadership and wartime mobilisation, comparable to British strategic coordination under Lloyd George during Europe and the First World War (1871–1918).
Domus mea mihi non tam cara est quam res publica, nec mea salus tam pretiosa quam vestra libertas. Quare, Quirites, defendite rem publicam, defendite libertatem, et nolite pati coniurationem nefariam in vos et in rem publicam fieri.In Catilinam I, ii.11
My house is not so dear to me as the republic, nor my safety so precious as your liberty. Therefore, citizens, defend the republic, defend liberty, and do not allow a wicked conspiracy to be formed against you and the state.
Relevant for studying emergency executive authority and civil liberties, comparable to defence regulation measures in British History during wartime crises.
O tempora, o mores! Senatus haec intellegit, consul videt; hic tamen vivit. Vivit? Immo vero etiam in senatum venit, fit publici consilii particeps, notat et designat oculis ad caedem unum quemque nostrum.
In Catilinam I, i.2
O the times! O the morals! The Senate understands this, the consul sees it; yet this man lives. Lives? Indeed, he even comes to the Senate, takes part in public deliberations, and marks each of us for slaughter with his gaze.
Relevant for studying authoritarian consolidation and political purges, comparable to state control mechanisms in The Soviet Union and post-Soviet Russia (1924–2000).
Quousque tandem, Quirites, coniurationem hanc nefariam patiemini? Nonne videtis rem publicam in summo periculo esse, et libertatem vestram in dubio versari?
In Catilinam I, iii.1
How long, citizens, will you endure this wicked conspiracy? Do you not see the republic in great danger and your liberty at stake?
Relevant for studying democratic fragility and factional polarisation, comparable to cabinet instability in European states in the inter-war years (1918–1939).
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Ego vero, Quirites, cum res publica in tanto periculo esset, non timui, sed omnia mea consilia in salutem vestram contuli.In Catilinam I, iv.1
Indeed, citizens, when the republic was in such great danger, I did not fear, but devoted all my efforts to your safety.
Relevant for studying diplomatic summits and territorial treaties, comparable to alliance negotiations in Versailles to Berlin: Diplomacy in Europe (1919–1945).
Nam si vos, Quirites, in tanto periculo rei publicae mea consilia audiatis, non solum rem publicam servabimus, sed etiam libertatem vestram defendemus.
In Catilinam I, iv.3
For if you, citizens, heed my advice in such great danger to the republic, we will not only save the republic but also defend your liberty.
Relevant for studying post-war reconstruction and institutional integration, comparable to economic recovery programmes in Post-war western and northern Europe (1945–2000).
Ego vero, Quirites, cum Catilina rem publicam oppugnaret, non timui, sed omnia mea consilia in salutem vestram contuli.
In Catilinam I, iii.4
Indeed, citizens, when Catiline attacked the republic, I did not fear, but devoted all my efforts to your safety.
Relevant for studying ideological suppression and satellite state control, comparable to political realignment in Post-war central and eastern Europe (1945–2000).
Quid est, Quirites, quod amplius exspectatis? Res publica in summo periculo est, et Catilina cum suis coniuratis adhuc in urbe manet.
In Catilinam I, ii.7
What is it, citizens, that you still await? The republic is in great danger, and Catiline with his conspirators still remains in the city.
Relevant for studying autocratic collapse and revolutionary momentum, comparable to the fall of the Romanov dynasty in Imperial Russia, revolution and the establishment of the Soviet Union.
Quare, Quirites, si vultis rem publicam salvam esse, mea consilia audite, et Catilinam cum suis coniuratis ex urbe expellite.
In Catilinam I, ii.5
Therefore, citizens, if you wish the republic to be safe, heed my advice and expel Catiline with his conspirators from the city.
Relevant for studying military leadership and wartime mobilisation, comparable to British strategic coordination under Lloyd George during Europe and the First World War (1871–1918).
Ego vero, cum res publica in summo periculo esset, non timui, sed omnia mea consilia in salutem populi Romani contuli.In Catilinam I, iii.6
Indeed, when the republic was in such great danger, I did not fear, but devoted all my efforts to the safety of the Roman people.
Relevant for studying emergency executive authority and civil liberties, comparable to defence regulation measures in British History during wartime crises.
Silent enim leges inter arma.
Pro Milone, iv.11
For laws are silent in the midst of arms.
Relevant for studying emergency powers and martial law during Europe and the First World War (1871–1918).
Cui bono?
Pro Roscio Amerino, xxx.84
Who stands to gain?
Relevant for studying political intelligence analysis and diplomatic motive in Versailles to Berlin: Diplomacy in Europe (1919–1945).
Historia vero testis temporum, lux veritatis, vita memoriae, magistra vitae, nuntia vetustatis.
De Oratore, II, ix.36
History is indeed the witness of the times, the light of truth, the life of memory, the teacher of life, the messenger of antiquity.
Relevant for studying historiography and national narrative formation in British History.
Esse oportet ut vivas, non vivere ut edas.
Rhetorica ad Herennium, IV, xxviii.39
One ought to eat to live, not live to eat.
Relevant for studying economic austerity and rationing policies in Post-war western and northern Europe (1945–2000).
Servitute postposita fertur ad libertatem.
Philippicae, IV, i.3
Setting slavery aside, it moves towards liberty.
Relevant for studying anti-autocratic revolutions in Imperial Russia, revolution and the establishment of the Soviet Union.
Nihil tam munitum quod non pecunia expugnari possit.
In Verrem, II, i.57
Nothing is so fortified that it cannot be taken by money.
Relevant for studying political corruption and financial scandals in European states in the inter-war years (1918–1939).
SALLUST
Nam postquam res publica in paucorum potentium ius atque dicionem concessit, semper illis reges, tetrarchae vectigales esse, populi, nationes stipendia pendere; ceteri omnes, strenui, boni, nobiles atque ignobiles, vulgus fuimus sine gratia, sine auctoritate, iis obnoxii, quibus, si res publica valeret, formidini essemus.
Bellum Catilinae, xx.7
For ever since the republic fell under the sway and jurisdiction of a few powerful men, kings and tetrarchs have been their tributaries, and nations have paid them taxes; all the rest of us, brave, good, noble and ignoble, have been a mere crowd without influence or authority, subservient to those to whom, if the state were healthy, we would be a terror.
Relevant for studying authoritarian consolidation and political purges, comparable to state control mechanisms in The Soviet Union and post-Soviet Russia (1924–2000).
Sed ubi labore atque iustitia res publica crevit, reges magni bello domiti, nationes ferae et populi ingentes vi subacti, Carthago aemula imperii Romani ab stirpe interiit, cuncta maria terraeque patebant.
Bellum Catilinae, x.1
But when the republic had grown through industry and justice, great kings were subdued in war, fierce nations and vast peoples brought low by force, and Carthage, the rival of Rome’s empire, was utterly destroyed, all seas and lands lay open.
Relevant for studying democratic fragility and factional polarisation, comparable to cabinet instability in European states in the inter-war years (1918–1939).
Quippe cum reges, principes, populi sub imperium populi Romani in deditionem venerint, terrae mariaque per orbem terrarum subiecta sint, et opes eorum in Romanos confluxerint, tamen avaritia et superbia in animis hominum invaluerunt, quae res publica dissensio et bella creavit.Bellum Iugurthinum, ii.3
Since kings, leaders, and peoples surrendered to Rome’s dominion, and lands and seas across the world were subjected, with their wealth flowing to the Romans, yet greed and arrogance grew in men’s hearts, causing discord and wars in the republic.
Relevant for studying diplomatic summits and territorial treaties, comparable to alliance negotiations in Versailles to Berlin: Diplomacy in Europe (1919–1945).
Bellum scripturus sum, quod populus Romanus cum Iugurtha rege Numidarum gessit, primum quia magnum et atrox variaque victoria fuit, deinde quia tunc primum superbiae nobilitatis obviam itum est.
Bellum Iugurthinum, v.1
I am about to write of the war which the Roman people waged with Jugurtha, king of the Numidians, first because it was great and fierce and of changeable victory, and second because then for the first time resistance was offered to the insolence of the nobility.
Relevant for studying post-war reconstruction and institutional integration, comparable to economic recovery programmes in Post-war western and northern Europe (1945–2000).
At Gaius Marius, altus quembiam animum, ubi primum docilis ad militiam annos attigit, in castris se exercuit, non in Graeca facundia neque in urbanis munditiis.
Bellum Iugurthinum, lxiii.2
But Gaius Marius, possessing a lofty mind, as soon as he reached military age, exercised himself in camp, not in Greek eloquence nor in urban refinements.
Relevant for studying ideological suppression and satellite state control, comparable to political realignment in Post-war central and eastern Europe (1945–2000).
Postquam divitiae honori esse coepere et eas gloria, imperium, potentia sequebatur, hebescere virtus, paupertas probro haberi, innocentia pro malevolentia duci coepit.Bellum Catilinae, xii.1
After wealth began to be held in honour and glory, authority, and power followed in its train, virtue began to lose its lustre, poverty was considered a disgrace, and blamelessness was taken for ill-will.
Relevant for studying autocratic collapse and revolutionary momentum, comparable to the fall of the Romanov dynasty in Imperial Russia, revolution and the establishment of the Soviet Union.
Igitur in tanta tamque corrupta civitate Catilina, id quod factu facillimum erat, omnium flagitiorum atque facinorum circum se tamquam stipatorum catervas habebat.
Bellum Catilinae, xiv.1
Therefore in so great and corrupt a city Catiline gathered around himself, as a bodyguard, troops of all the wicked and criminal men, a thing easiest to do.
Relevant for studying military leadership and wartime mobilisation, comparable to British strategic coordination under Lloyd George during Europe and the First World War (1871–1918).
Paucis periculum, ad omnis metus.
Historiae, I, 55
Danger touches a few, fear touches all.
Relevant for studying state terror and political repression in The Soviet Union and post-Soviet Russia (1924–2000).
Avaritia fidem, probitatem ceterasque artis bonas subvertit.
Bellum Catilinae, x.3
Greed subverts trust, integrity, and all other noble arts.
Relevant for studying economic collapse and systemic instability in European states in the inter-war years (1918–1939).
Simulatque se exercendi causa in agrum contulerat, venari, cursu cum aequalibus certare.
Bellum Iugurthinum, vi.1
As soon as he took to the field to exercise, he hunted and competed in running with his peers.
Relevant for studying elite military education and leadership formation in British History.
CÆSAR
Gallia est omnis divisa in partes tres, quarum unam incolunt Belgae, aliam Aquitani, tertiam qui ipsorum lingua Celtae, nostra Galli appellantur.
Commentarii de Bello Gallico, I, i.1
Gaul is a whole divided into three parts, one of which the Belgae inhabit, another the Aquitani, and the third those who in their own language are called Celts, in ours Gauls.
Relevant for studying emergency executive authority and civil liberties, comparable to defence regulation measures in British History during wartime crises.
Nostri acriter in hostes signo dato impetum fecerunt; hostes ubi primum equitatum nostrum viderunt, celeriter perturbati in fugam se coniecerunt.
Commentarii de Bello Gallico, V, xliv.1
Our men fiercely attacked the enemy when the signal was given; as soon as the enemy saw our cavalry, they were quickly thrown into confusion and fled.
Relevant for studying authoritarian consolidation and political purges, comparable to state control mechanisms in The Soviet Union and post-Soviet Russia (1924–2000).
Cum Galli in conspectum venissent, nostri equites in eos impetum fecerunt, et ita eos perturbaverunt ut statim in fugam se coniicerunt.
Commentarii de Bello Gallico, VII, lxvi.1
When the Gauls came into view, our cavalry charged them and so disordered them that they immediately fled.
Relevant for studying democratic fragility and factional polarisation, comparable to cabinet instability in European states in the inter-war years (1918–1939).
Fere libenter homines id quod volunt credunt.
Commentarii de Bello Gallico, III, xviii.6
Men generally believe what they wish to believe.
Relevant for studying diplomatic summits and territorial treaties, comparable to alliance negotiations in Versailles to Berlin: Diplomacy in Europe (1919–1945).
Vercingetorix, deditis armis, proiectis e muro armis, in deditionem venit; Caesar captivos incolumes servavit et in Gallia hiberna constituit.Commentarii de Bello Gallico, VII, lxxxix.2
Vercingetorix, having surrendered his arms and thrown them from the wall, submitted; Caesar kept the captives unharmed and established winter quarters in Gaul.
Relevant for studying post-war reconstruction and institutional integration, comparable to economic recovery programmes in Post-war western and northern Europe (1945–2000).
Caesar, cognito consilio eorum, ad flumen Tamesim in fines Cassivellauni exercitum duxit; quod flumen uno omnino loco pedibus, atque hoc aegre, transiri potest.
Commentarii de Bello Gallico, V, xviii.1
Caesar, discovering their design, led his army to the river Thames into the territories of Cassivellaunus; which river can be crossed on foot in one place only, and that with difficulty.
Relevant for studying ideological suppression and satellite state control, comparable to political realignment in Post-war central and eastern Europe (1945–2000).
Alesia loci natura murisque munitissima videbatur, quam nisi obsidione expugnari non posse constabat.
Commentarii de Bello Gallico, VII, lxviii.1
Alesia appeared extremely well fortified by the nature of the ground and its walls, and it was clear that it could not be taken except by blockade.
Relevant for studying autocratic collapse and revolutionary momentum, comparable to the fall of the Romanov dynasty in Imperial Russia, revolution and the establishment of the Soviet Union.
Veni, vidi, vici.
De Vita Caesarum, Divus Iulius, xxxvii.2
I came, I saw, I conquered.
Relevant for studying rapid offensive doctrine and decisive campaigns in Europe and the First World War (1871–1918).
Horum omnium fortissimi sunt Belgae.
Commentarii de Bello Gallico, I, i.3
Of all these, the Belgae are the bravest.
Relevant for studying Belgian neutrality and military resistance during Europe and the First World War (1871–1918).
Cum esset in citeriore Gallia, crebri ad eum rumores afferebantur.
Commentarii de Bello Gallico, II, i.1
While he was in Nearer Gaul, frequent rumors were brought to him.
Relevant for studying frontier security and intelligence networks in Versailles to Berlin: Diplomacy in Europe (1919–1945).
Nihil nisi quod publicum esset auditurus.
Commentarii de Bello Civili, I, xix.4
Refusing to hear anything except what was public.
Relevant for studying open diplomacy versus secret treaties in Versailles to Berlin: Diplomacy in Europe (1919–1945).
LIVY
Ad illa mihi pro se quisque acriter intendat animum, quae vita, qui mores fuerint, per quos viros quibusque artibus domi militiaeque et partum et auctum imperium sit.
Ab Urbe Condita, Praefatio, 9
To these matters let each man direct his keen attention: what life and morals were like, through what men and by what arts at home and abroad power was won and extended.
Relevant for studying military leadership and wartime mobilisation, comparable to British strategic coordination under Lloyd George during Europe and the First World War (1871–1918).
Romanus sum, inquit, civis; Gaium Mucium vocant. Hostis hostem occidere volui, nec ad mortem minus animi est quam ad caedem fuit: et facere et pati fortia Romanum est.
Ab Urbe Condita, II, xii.9
"I am a Roman citizen," he said; "they call me Gaius Mucius. As an enemy I wished to kill the enemy, and I have no less courage to die than I had to kill: to do and to suffer bravely is the Roman way."
Relevant for studying emergency executive authority and civil liberties, comparable to defence regulation measures in British History during wartime crises.
Hannibal, peto pacem; eam peto, quia patriae et mihi usui esse potes; nec pacem tantum, sed fidem et societatem populi Romani peto.
Ab Urbe Condita, XXX, xxx.1
Hannibal, I ask for peace; I ask it because you can be useful to your country and to me; and I ask not peace alone, but the faith and alliance of the Roman people.
Relevant for studying authoritarian consolidation and political purges, comparable to state control mechanisms in The Soviet Union and post-Soviet Russia (1924–2000).
Cum Scipio Africanus in Africam venisset, Hannibalem apud Zamam vicit, et Carthaginem in dicionem populi Romani redegit.
Ab Urbe Condita, XXX, xxxv.1
When Scipio Africanus had arrived in Africa, he defeated Hannibal at Zama, and brought Carthage under the sway of the Roman people.
Relevant for studying democratic fragility and factional polarisation, comparable to cabinet instability in European states in the inter-war years (1918–1939).
Praeclarum hoc exemplum est libertatis conservandae, cum populus Romanus eiectis regibus liberi civitatis statum stabilivit.
Ab Urbe Condita, II, i.1
This is a glorious example of preserving liberty, when the Roman people, having driven out the kings, established the status of a free state.
Relevant for studying diplomatic summits and territorial treaties, comparable to alliance negotiations in Versailles to Berlin: Diplomacy in Europe (1919–1945).
Camillus, captis Veiis, in urbem triumphans rediit; cumque ab exsilio revocatus esset, Gallos e vestigio vicit et patriae parentis nomen accepit.
Ab Urbe Condita, V, xlix.1
Camillus, having captured Veii, returned in triumph to the city; and when recalled from exile, he instantly defeated the Gauls and earned the name of father of his country.
Relevant for studying post-war reconstruction and institutional integration, comparable to economic recovery programmes in Post-war western and northern Europe (1945–2000).
Postquam Sulla dictator factus est, proscriptiones et caedes per omnem urbem exarserunt, omniaque iura sublata sunt.
Ab Urbe Condita, Epitome, lxxxix.1
After Sulla was made dictator, proscriptions and slaughters raged through the entire city, and all laws were swept away.
Relevant for studying ideological suppression and satellite state control, comparable to political realignment in Post-war central and eastern Europe (1945–2000).
Pyrrhus, victis Romanis apud Heracleam, dixit: Si iterum eodem modo vicero, sine ullo milite in Epirum revertar.
Ab Urbe Condita, Epitome, XIII, i.1
Pyrrhus, having defeated the Romans at Heraclea, said: "If I conquer again in the same manner, I shall return to Epirus without a single soldier."
Relevant for studying autocratic collapse and revolutionary momentum, comparable to the fall of the Romanov dynasty in Imperial Russia, revolution and the establishment of the Soviet Union.
Vae victis.
Ab Urbe Condita, V, xlviii.9
Woe to the vanquished.
Relevant for studying harsh peace terms and reparations imposed in Versailles to Berlin: Diplomacy in Europe (1919–1945).
Pace suscepta, bellum omissum est.
Ab Urbe Condita, II, ix.1
Peace having been undertaken, war was laid aside.
Relevant for studying armistice negotiations ending Europe and the First World War (1871–1918).
Melius est pro patria mori quam vitam in servitute agere.
Ab Urbe Condita, IV, ii.5
It is better to die for one's country than to spend life in servitude.
Relevant for studying patriotic mobilisation and resistance movements in Post-war central and eastern Europe (145–2000).
Fides et constantia in rebus adversis maxime elucent.
Ab Urbe Condita, XXII, li.3
Loyalty and constancy shine brightest in adversity.
Relevant for studying home front resilience during wartime in British History.
VELLEIUS PATERCULUS
Nihil deinde optandum hominibus a diis immortalibus, nihil dii hominibus praestare possunt, nihil cogitatione concipi, nihil voto optari, quod non Augustus post reditum in urbem rei publicae populoque Romano terrarumque orbi praestiterit.
Historiae Romanae, II, lxxxix.2
There is nothing that men can desire of the immortal gods, nothing the gods can bestow upon men, nothing that can be conceived in thought or wished for in prayer, which Augustus after his return to the city did not grant to the republic, the Roman people, and the whole world.
Relevant for studying military leadership and wartime mobilisation, comparable to British strategic coordination under Lloyd George during Europe and the First World War (1871–1918).
Caius Caesar, vir saeculorum omnium clarissimus, postquam Gallias domuit, in urbem victor rediit, et civilibus bellis compositis imperium tenuit.Historiae Romanae, II, lvi.1
Gaius Caesar, the most illustrious man of all ages, after subduing Gaul, returned victorious to the city, and having settled the civil wars, held supreme command.
Relevant for studying emergency executive authority and civil liberties, comparable to defence regulation measures in British History during wartime crises.
Pax Augusta cum cunctis regionibus sponte data esset, revocatus vigor legibus, fides foro, auctoritas senatui, maiestas imperio reddita est.
Historiae Romanae, II, lxxxix.3
When Augustan peace was voluntarily granted to all regions, vigour was restored to the laws, faith to the forum, authority to the Senate, and majesty to the empire.
Relevant for studying authoritarian consolidation and political purges, comparable to state control mechanisms in The Soviet Union and post-Soviet Russia (1924–2000).
Tiberius Caesar, quanto cum periculo publico educatus, tanta cum gloria imperium adiit, senatum maiestate, exercitus disciplina continentiaque rexit.
Historiae Romanae, II, cxxiv.1
Tiberius Caesar, educated under as much public danger as he assumed power with glory, ruled the Senate with majesty and the armies with discipline and restraint.
Relevant for studying democratic fragility and factional polarisation, comparable to cabinet instability in European states in the inter-war years (1918–1939).
Gaius Caesar Caligula, princeps exoptatissimus, mox in perniciem cunctorum conversus, immanitate atque intemperantia imperium polluit.
Historiae Romanae, II, cxxix.1
Gaius Caesar Caligula, a most eagerly desired prince, soon turning to the ruin of all, polluted the empire with savage cruelty and excess.
Relevant for studying diplomatic summits and territorial treaties, comparable to alliance negotiations in Versailles to Berlin: Diplomacy in Europe (1919–1945).
Lucius Sulla, vir in bello nobilissimus et pacis moderator immodicus, post victoriam proscriptione primus exemplum saevitiae in cives ostendit.
Historiae Romanae, II, xxviii.1
Lucius Sulla, a man most noble in war and an immoderate regulator of peace, was the first after victory to show an example of cruelty against citizens by proscription.
Relevant for studying post-war reconstruction and institutional integration, comparable to economic recovery programmes in Post-war western and northern Europe (1945–2000).
Gaius Marius, natus equestri loco, vir bello fortissimus, otio immodicus, consulatus suos non tam gloria quam ambitione numeravit.
Historiae Romanae, II, xi.1
Gaius Marius, born of equestrian rank, a man most valiant in war and restless in peace, counted his consulships not so much by glory as by ambition.
Relevant for studying ideological suppression and satellite state control, comparable to political realignment in Post-war central and eastern Europe (1945–2000).
TACITUS
Urbem Romam a principio reges habuere; libertatem et consulatum L. Brutus instituit. Dictaturae ad tempus sumebantur; neque decemviralis potestas ultra biennium, neque tribunorum militum consulare ius diu valuit.
Annales, I, i.1
Rome from the beginning was ruled by kings; Lucius Brutus established liberty and the consulship. Dictatorships were assumed for temporary needs; neither did decemviral power last beyond two years, nor did consular authority of military tribunes endure long.
Relevant for studying autocratic collapse and revolutionary momentum, comparable to the fall of the Romanov dynasty in Imperial Russia, revolution and the establishment of the Soviet Union.
Tiberius cuncta per consules incipiebat, tamquam vetere re publica et dubius imperandi: ne edictum quidem, quo patres in curiam vocabat, nisi tribuniciae potestatis praescripto emisit.
Annales, I, vii.3
Tiberius initiated everything through the consuls, as if the old republic remained and he were hesitant to command: he did not even issue the edict summoning the senators to the curia except under the title of tribunician power.
Relevant for studying military leadership and wartime mobilisation, comparable to British strategic coordination under Lloyd George during Europe and the First World War (1871–1918).
Nero matrem interfici iubet, diu meditatus scelus, postquam cuncta periculi et audaciae rationes ad exitum produxerat.
Annales, XIV, vii.1
Nero ordered his mother to be killed, having long pondered the crime after carrying out all schemes of danger and audacity to their conclusion.
Relevant for studying emergency executive authority and civil liberties, comparable to defence regulation measures in British History during wartime crises.
Domitianus cunctos nobilissimos viros interfici vel in exsilium agi iussit, donec saevitia eius civitatem in silentium et metum redegit.
Annales, XV, xlv.1
Domitian commanded all the most noble men to be executed or driven into exile, until his cruelty reduced the state to silence and terror.
Relevant for studying authoritarian consolidation and political purges, comparable to state control mechanisms in The Soviet Union and post-Soviet Russia (1924–2000).
Galba, ingenio medio magis quam bono, maiore ad virtutem spe quam facultate, imperium vetere severitate rexit, sed brevi deiectus est.
Historiae, I, xlix.2
Galba, of an average rather than good disposition, with greater hope for virtue than capacity, ruled the empire with ancient severity, but was quickly overthrown.
Relevant for studying democratic fragility and factional polarisation, comparable to cabinet instability in European states in the inter-war years (1918–1939).
Otho luxu et desidia corruptus, invasit imperium per scelus, sed non minore virtute quam audacia in acie dimicavit.
Historiae, I, xxii.1
Otho, corrupted by luxury and sloth, seized the empire through crime, but fought in battle with no less courage than audacity.
Relevant for studying diplomatic summits and territorial treaties, comparable to alliance negotiations in Versailles to Berlin: Diplomacy in Europe (1919–1945).
Vitellius, ventri et crapulae deditus, gulam atque intemperantiam exercitui ostendit, donec militum animi ad rebellionem accensi sunt.
Historiae, II, lxii.1
Vitellius, devoted to gluttony and debauchery, displayed greed and excess to his army, until the soldiers' minds were inflamed to rebellion.
Relevant for studying post-war reconstruction and institutional integration, comparable to economic recovery programmes in Post-war western and northern Europe (1945–2000).
Vespasianus reipublicae fessae remedium attulit, severitate et liberalitate temperatus, pacem civibus et disciplinam militibus restituit.
Historiae, IV, i.1
Vespasian brought relief to the exhausted republic, tempered with severity and generosity, restoring peace to citizens and discipline to soldiers.
Relevant for studying ideological suppression and satellite state control, comparable to political realignment in Post-war central and eastern Europe (1945–2000).
Titus, amor ac deliciae generis humani appellatus, tanta facilitate et liberalitate fuit ut neminem tristem a se dimiserit.
Historiae, IV, lxxxvi.1
Titus, called the delight and darling of the human race, possessed such ease and generosity that he sent no one away sad.
Relevant for studying autocratic collapse and revolutionary momentum, comparable to the fall of the Romanov dynasty in Imperial Russia, revolution and the establishment of the Soviet Union.
Domitianus primo fallaci moderatione simulationeque virtutis usus est, mox in immanissimam crudelitatem prorupit.
Historiae, V, i.1
Domitian at first employed treacherous moderation and the pretence of virtue, but soon burst forth into the most savage cruelty.
Relevant for studying military leadership and wartime mobilisation, comparable to British strategic coordination under Lloyd George during Europe and the First World War (1871–1918).
Nerva Caesar divus, res olim dissociabiles miscuit, principatum ac libertatem, auxitque felicitatem temporum.
Agricola, iii.1
The divine Nerva Caesar united things once incompatible, the principate and liberty, and increased the happiness of the times.
Relevant for studying emergency executive authority and civil liberties, comparable to defence regulation measures in British History during wartime crises.
Traianus imperator, reipublicae decus et incrementum, cunctis provinciis iustitia et fortitudine providit.
Historiae, V, xxix.1
Trajan the emperor, the glory and enlargement of the state, provided for all provinces with justice and fortitude.
Relevant for studying authoritarian consolidation and political purges, comparable to state control mechanisms in The Soviet Union and post-Soviet Russia (1924–2000).
Hadrianus cuncta imperii itinera peragravit, provincias manu sua fovit, opera publica orbi terrarum adiecit.Historiae, V, xlvi.1
Hadrian travelled all the highways of the empire, cherished the provinces with his own hand, and added public works to the whole world.
Relevant for studying democratic fragility and factional polarisation, comparable to cabinet instability in European states in the inter-war years (1918–1939).
Antoninus Pius, innocentia et mansuetudine clarissimus, pacem orbi terrarum sine armis praestitit.
Historiae, V, lxii.1
Antoninus Pius, most famous for integrity and gentleness, maintained peace for the world without force of arms.
Relevant for studying diplomatic summits and territorial treaties, comparable to alliance negotiations in Versailles to Berlin: Diplomacy in Europe (1919–1945).
Marcus Antoninus, philosophiae et militiae studio pariter insignis, graves Germanorum motus mira constantia repressit.
Historiae, V, lxxvi.1
Marcus Antoninus, equally distinguished in philosophy and military skill, suppressed severe German uprisings with remarkable constancy.
Relevant for studying post-war reconstruction and institutional integration, comparable to economic recovery programmes in Post-war western and northern Europe (1945–2000).
Commodus, a paterna virtute degener, luxuria ac gladatorio furore rem publicam dedecoravit.
Historiae, V, xcii.1
Commodus, degenerating from his father's virtue, disgraced the republic with luxury and gladiatorial madness.
Relevant for studying ideological suppression and satellite state control, comparable to political realignment in Post-war central and eastern Europe (1945–2000).
Pertinax, disciplinae militaris restitutor, senatus favore electus, mox militum furore caesus est.
Historiae, V, civ.1
Pertinax, the restorer of military discipline, elected with the Senate's favour, was soon slain by the fury of the soldiers.
Relevant for studying autocratic collapse and revolutionary momentum, comparable to the fall of the Romanov dynasty in Imperial Russia, revolution and the establishment of the Soviet Union.
Didius Iulianus, pecunia imperium nactus, a militibus et plebe desertus, foedum exitum habuit.
Historiae, V, cviii.1
Didius Julianus, having acquired the empire with money, abandoned by soldiers and plebeians alike, met a foul end.
Relevant for studying military leadership and wartime mobilisation, comparable to British strategic coordination under Lloyd George during Europe and the First World War (1871–1918).
Severus, acer et pertinax, gestis bellis civilibus externisque imperium orbi terrarum vindicavit.
Historiae, V, cxx.1
Severus, fierce and resolute, having waged civil and foreign wars, secured supreme power over the world.
Relevant for studying emergency executive authority and civil liberties, comparable to defence regulation measures in British History during wartime crises.
Caracalla, fratre interfecto, saevitia et tributorum gravitate populum Romanum oppressit.
Historiae, V, cxxxii.1
Caracalla, having slain his brother, oppressed the Roman people with cruelty and heavy taxation.
Relevant for studying authoritarian consolidation and political purges, comparable to state control mechanisms in The Soviet Union and post-Soviet Russia (1924–2000).
In silentio et spe fortitudo nostra.
Historiae, IV, xii.2
In silence and hope lies our strength.
Relevant for studying passive resistance under totalitarian rule in Post-war central and eastern Europe (1945–2000).
Corruptissima re publica plurimae leges.
Annales, III, xxvii.3
In the most corrupt state are the most laws.
Relevant for studying bureaucratic hyper-regulation in European states in the inter-war years (1918–1939).
Omnium consensu capax imperii nisi imperasset.
Historiae, I, xlix.4
He would have been thought by all capable of ruling, had he not ruled.
Relevant for studying political misjudgement and executive failure in British History.
Fingunt creduntque.
Annales, V, x.2
They invent and believe.
Relevant for studying state propaganda and disinformation campaigns in The Soviet Union and post-Soviet Russia (1924–2000).
Ratio causaeque in occulto.
Annales, II, luxxviii.1
The reason and causes were kept in secret.
Relevant for studying covert intelligence and clandestine operations in Versailles to Berlin: Diplomacy in Europe (1919–1945).
SUETONIUS
Urbem neque pro maiestate imperii ornatam et inundationibus incendiisque obnoxiam excoluit adeo, ut iure sit gloriatus marmoream se relinquere, quam latericiam accepisset.
De Vita Caesarum, Divus Augustus, xxviii.3
He so beautified the city, which had not been adorned proportionally to the majesty of the empire and was exposed to floods and fires, that he could justly boast he found it built of brick and left it made of marble.
Relevant for studying democratic fragility and factional polarisation, comparable to cabinet instability in European states in the inter-war years (1918–1939).
Tiberius cuncta per consules et senatum agere simulabat, dum ipse e secessu Caprearum cuncta arbitrio regebat.
De Vita Caesarum, Tiberius, xxiv.1
Tiberius pretended to conduct all business through the consuls and Senate, while he himself ruled everything by his own will from his retreat at Capri.
Relevant for studying diplomatic summits and territorial treaties, comparable to alliance negotiations in Versailles to Berlin: Diplomacy in Europe (1919–1945).
Gaius Caligula, oblitus principis et deum se iactans, totus in immanitatem et luxuriae prodigia delapsus est.
De Vita Caesarum, Caligula, xxii.1
Gaius Caligula, forgetting he was a prince and boasting himself a god, sank entirely into cruelty and monstrous luxury.
Relevant for studying post-war reconstruction and institutional integration, comparable to economic recovery programmes in Post-war western and northern Europe (1945–2000).
Claudius imperium incertum firmavit, iudiciis legendisque senatoribus operam dedit, opera publica magnifica perfecit.
De Vita Caesarum, Divus Claudius, x.1
Claudius secured his uncertain power, gave attention to judicial trials and selecting senators, and completed magnificent public works.
Relevant for studying ideological suppression and satellite state control, comparable to political realignment in Post-war central and eastern Europe (1945–2000).
Nero formam urbis novam constituit, sed incendio Romae orto spectaculum cladis e turri Maecenatis laetus inspexit.
De Vita Caesarum, Nero, xxxviii.1
Nero established a new design for the city, but when the fire of Rome broke out, he joyfully watched the spectacle of destruction from the tower of Maecenas.
Relevant for studying autocratic collapse and revolutionary momentum, comparable to the fall of the Romanov dynasty in Imperial Russia, revolution and the establishment of the Soviet Union.
Galba maiore severitate quam gratia rem publicam rexit, militibus donativum negans, quo facto cito periit.
De Vita Caesarum, Galba, xiv.1
Galba ruled the state with greater severity than favour, denying the soldiers a bounty, by which act he quickly perished.
Relevant for studying military leadership and wartime mobilisation, comparable to British strategic coordination under Lloyd George during Europe and the First World War (1871–1918).
Otho luxuria et ambitione notus, interfecto Galba, imperium occupavit, sed clade apud Bedriacum accepta manu sua periit.
De Vita Caesarum, Otho, vii.1
Otho, noted for luxury and ambition, seized power after Galba was slain, but after suffering defeat at Bedriacum died by his own hand.
Relevant for studying emergency executive authority and civil liberties, comparable to defence regulation measures in British History during wartime crises.
Vitellius luxuriae et gulae gnarus, intra paucos menses immensa milia sestertium in conviviis effudit.
De Vita Caesarum, Vitellius, xiii.1
Vitellius, skilled in luxury and gluttony, squandered immense millions of sesterces on banquets within a few months.
Relevant for studying authoritarian consolidation and political purges, comparable to state control mechanisms in The Soviet Union and post-Soviet Russia (1924–2000).
Vespasianus exhaustas fisco et aerario opes restituit, disciplinae militaris et iustitiae vindex firmissimus fuit.
De Vita Caesarum, Divus Vespasianus, ix.1
Vespasian restored the exhausted treasury and public funds, standing as a most resolute defender of military discipline and justice.
Relevant for studying democratic fragility and factional polarisation, comparable to cabinet instability in European states in the inter-war years (1918–1939).
Titus tanto amore populi vixerit ut deliciae humani generis sit dictus, clementia et munificentia insignis.
De Vita Caesarum, Divus Titus, viii.1
Titus lived with such love of the people that he was called the delight of the human race, distinguished by clemency and generosity.
Relevant for studying diplomatic summits and territorial treaties, comparable to alliance negotiations in Versailles to Berlin: Diplomacy in Europe (1919–1945).
Domitianus superbia et saevitia invisus, dominum se et deum appellari iussit, donec coniuratione suorum interfectus est.
De Vita Caesarum, Domitianus, xiii.1
Domitian, hated for pride and cruelty, ordered himself to be addressed as lord and god, until he was slain in a conspiracy of his own household.
Relevant for studying post-war reconstruction and institutional integration, comparable to economic recovery programmes in Post-war western and northern Europe (1945–2000).
Nerva accepto imperio libertatem restituit, senatum fovit, Traianum filium et successorem adoptavit.
De Vita Caesarum, Nerva, ii.1
Nerva, having received supreme power, restored liberty, cherished the Senate, and adopted Trajan as his son and successor.
Relevant for studying ideological suppression and satellite state control, comparable to political realignment in Post-war central and eastern Europe (1945–2000).
Traianus gloria militari et civili moderatione excellens, finibus imperii propagatis, optimus princeps est cognominatus.
De Vita Caesarum, Traianus, v.1
Trajan, excelling in military glory and civil moderation, having extended the borders of the empire, was surnamed the best of princes.
Relevant for studying autocratic collapse and revolutionary momentum, comparable to the fall of the Romanov dynasty in Imperial Russia, revolution and the establishment of the Soviet Union.
Hadrianus pacem per totum orbem terrarum confirmavit, disciplinas militares exercuit, liberalibus artibus unice favit.
De Vita Caesarum, Hadrianus, ix.1
Hadrian confirmed peace throughout the whole world, maintained military disciplines, and uniquely favoured the liberal arts.
Relevant for studying military leadership and wartime mobilisation, comparable to British strategic coordination under Lloyd George during Europe and the First World War (1871–1918).
Festina lente.
De Vita Caesarum, Divus Augustus, xxv.4
Make haste slowly.
Relevant for studying cautious economic modernization policies in Post-war western and northern Europe (1945–2000).
Odor lucri bene olet ex re qualibet.
De Vita Caesarum, Divus Vespasianus, xxiii.3
The smell of gain is good from any source.
Relevant for studying revenue extraction and state taxation models in British History.
Qualis artifex pereo!
De Vita Caesarum, Nero, xlix.1
What an artist dies in me!
Relevant for studying autocratic vanity and regime collapse in Imperial Russia, revolution and the establishment of the Soviet Union.
Amicos neque facilis admisit et constantissime retinuit.
De Vita Caesarum, Divus Augustus, lxvi.1
He did not easily admit friends, but retained them most constantly.
Relevant for studying inner cabinet loyalty and patronage networks in European states in the inter-war years (1918–1939).
PLINY THE YOUNGER
Olim pro re publica pugnabatur; nunc pro nobis. Tanta est enim principis nostri humanitas, ut non nos illi, sed ille nobis servire videatur.
Epistulae, X, i.1
Once men fought for the republic; now for us. For such is the humanity of our prince, that he seems not we to serve him, but he to serve us.
Relevant for studying emergency executive authority and civil liberties, comparable to defence regulation measures in British History during wartime crises.
Nubem inusitata et magnitudine et specie repente apparuisse; quae ex longinquo intuentibus incertum ex quo monte — Vesuvisum postea cognitum est — oriebatur.
Epistulae, VI, xvi.5
A cloud appeared, of unusual size and appearance; to those viewing it from a distance it was uncertain from which mountain it arose—it was later known to be Vesuvius.
Relevant for studying authoritarian consolidation and political purges, comparable to state control mechanisms in The Soviet Union and post-Soviet Russia (1924–2000).
Traianus imperator cunctas provincias lustravit, iustitiam reformavit, inopia laborantibus opem latam providit.
Epistulae, X, xvii.1
Trajan the emperor surveyed all the provinces, reformed justice, and provided aid to those suffering from want.
Relevant for studying democratic fragility and factional polarisation, comparable to cabinet instability in European states in the inter-war years (1918–1939).
Cum ego in senatu essem, vidi quomodo Traianus senatum honoraret, et ita se gessit ut omnes eum admirarentur.Epistulae, X, iii.1
When I was in the Senate, I saw how Trajan honoured the Senate, and he conducted himself so that all admired him.
Relevant for studying diplomatic summits and territorial treaties, comparable to alliance negotiations in Versailles to Berlin: Diplomacy in Europe (1919–1945).
Domitianus saevissimus tyannus, omnes optimos cives suspicione et calumnia evertit, donec iusto exitu decessit.
Epistulae, III, vii.1
Domitian, a most savage tyrant, destroyed all the best citizens through suspicion and slander, until he died a deserved death.
Relevant for studying post-war reconstruction and institutional integration, comparable to economic recovery programmes in Post-war western and northern Europe (1945–2000).
Populus Romanus Traianum principem non timore sed amore sequebatur, quod eius virtus et frugalitas omnibus innotuerat.
Epistulae, X, xviii.1
The Roman people followed Prince Trajan not out of fear but love, because his virtue and frugality were known to all.
Relevant for studying ideological suppression and satellite state control, comparable to political realignment in Post-war central and eastern Europe (1945–2000).
Nullus liber est tam malus ut non aliqua parte prosit.
Epistulae, III, v.10
There is no book so bad that it is not profitable in some part.
Relevant for studying censorship and literary control in Post-war central and eastern Europe (1945–2000).
Oftimus est qui aliis ignoscit tamquam ipse cotidie peccet.
Epistulae, VIII, xxii.1
He is best who pardons others as though he himself sinned daily.
Relevant for studying political amnesty and post-conflict reconciliation in Post-war western and northern Europe (1945–2000).
AMMIANUS MARCELLINUS
Julianu, vir studio liberalium artium et bellica gloria clarus, Gallias a barbarorum vastitate vindicavit.
Res Gestae, XXII, i.1
Julian, a man famous for the study of liberal arts and military glory, rescued Gaul from the devastation of barbarians.
Relevant for studying autocratic collapse and revolutionary momentum, comparable to the fall of the Romanov dynasty in Imperial Russia, revolution and the establishment of the Soviet Union.
Valentinianus, princeps severus et vigilan, fines imperii vallis et castellis communivit, leges aequas promulgavit.Res Gestae, XXX, i.1
Valentinian, a stern and vigilant prince, fortified the borders of the empire with ramparts and forts, and promulgated equal laws.
Relevant for studying military leadership and wartime mobilisation, comparable to British strategic coordination under Lloyd George during Europe and the First World War (1871–1918).
Nec ulla annalibus praeter Cannensem tantis cum cladibus conparatur strages, qua Valens imperator cum exercitu cecidit.
Res Gestae, XXXI, xiii.19
Nor is any slaughter in the annals, except that of Cannae, compared with such disasters, in which Emperor Valens fell with his army.
Relevant for studying emergency executive authority and civil liberties, comparable to defence regulation measures in British History during wartime crises.
Constantius, imperator cautus et suspicax, internas factiones acerrime repressit et imperium in orientem propagavit.Res Gestae, XXI, xvi.1
Constantius, a cautious and suspicious emperor, most fiercely suppressed internal factions and extended authority over the East.
Relevant for studying authoritarian consolidation and political purges, comparable to state control mechanisms in The Soviet Union and post-Soviet Russia (1924–2000).
Theodosius, princeps virtute ac fide conspicuus, barbaros vicit, pacem provincis restituit.
Res Gestae, XXIX, i.1
Theodosius, a prince conspicuous for valour and faith, conquered the barbarians and restored peace to the provinces.
Relevant for studying democratic fragility and factional polarisation, comparable to cabinet instability in European states in the inter-war years (1918–1939).
Jovianus, accepto post Iuliani mortem imperio, necessitate compulsus pacem cum Persis fecit.
Res Gestae, XXV, vii.1
Jovian, having assumed supreme command after Julian's death, compelled by necessity made peace with the Persians.
Relevant for studying diplomatic summits and territorial treaties, comparable to alliance negotiations in Versailles to Berlin: Diplomacy in Europe (1919–1945).
Gratianus, iuvenis moribus bonis sed consiliis alienis obnoxius, rebellione militum oppressus periit.
Res Gestae, XXXI, x.1
Gratian, a youth of good character but subject to foreign counsel, perished overwhelmed by a mutiny of his troops.
Relevant for studying post-war reconstruction and institutional integration, comparable to economic recovery programmes in Post-war western and northern Europe (1945–2000).
Julianu in conflictu cum Persis hasta saucius, inter manus militum fortissimam animam efflavit.
Res Gestae, XXV, iii.1
Julian, wounded by a spear in conflict with the Persians, breathed forth his brave spirit in the hands of his soldiers.
Relevant for studying ideological suppression and satellite state control, comparable to political realignment in Post-war central and eastern Europe (1945–2000).
Militem non terrore sed exemplo ad labores incitabat.
Res Gestae, XXV, iv.12
He urged the soldier to toil not by terror but by example.
Relevant for studying frontline leadership styles in British History during the Second World War.
Veritas quandoque laborat, opprimi non potest.
Res Gestae, XXVII, ix.4
Truth sometimes suffers, but it cannot be crushed.
Relevant for studying underground samizdat literature in Post-war central and eastern Europe (1945–2000).
HISTORIA AUGUSTA
Animula vagula blandula, hospes comesque corporis, quo nunc abibis in loca pallidula rigida nudula, nec ut soles dabis iocos!
Vita Hadriani, xxv.9
Little soul, wandering and charming, guest and companion of the body, into what places will you now depart, pale, stiff, and bare, no longer giving jokes as was your wont!
Relevant for studying autocratic collapse and revolutionary momentum, comparable to the fall of the Romanov dynasty in Imperial Russia, revolution and the establishment of the Soviet Union.
Antoninus Pius tanta clementia ac iustitia rexit ut nullum civem sine causa puniverit et pacem ubique servaverit.
Vita Antonini Pii, vii.1
Antoninus Pius ruled with such clemency and justice that he punished no citizen without cause and preserved peace everywhere.
Relevant for studying military leadership and wartime mobilisation, comparable to British strategic coordination under Lloyd George during Europe and the First World War (1871–1918).
Marcus Antoninus philosophiae praeceptis imbutus, in bellis Germanicis et Sarmaticis summam fortitudinem praestitit.Vita Marci Aurelii, xvii.1
Marcus Antoninus, imbued with the precepts of philosophy, showed supreme fortitude in the German and Sarmatian wars.
Relevant for studying emergency executive authority and civil liberties, comparable to defence regulation measures in British History during wartime crises.
Commodus a patris sanctissimis moribus degressus, gladiatorum spectaculis et saevitia se maculavit.
Vita Commodi, vii.1
Commodus, departing from his father's most holy character, stained himself with gladiatorial shows and cruelty.
Relevant for studying authoritarian consolidation and political purges, comparable to state control mechanisms in The Soviet Union and post-Soviet Russia (1924–2000).
Pertinax, e praefectura urbis ad imperium vocatus, disciplina reformata brevi tempore a militibus interfectus est.
Vita Pertinacis, x.1
Pertinax, called to supreme power from the prefecture of the city, having reformed discipline was slain by soldiers in a short time.
Relevant for studying democratic fragility and factional polarisation, comparable to cabinet instability in European states in the inter-war years (1918–1939).
Elagabalus, sacerdos Solis, luxuria et turpitudine cunctos antecessit, donec a militibus in Tiberim praecipitatus est.Vita Elagabali, xiv.1
Elagabalus, priest of the Sun, surpassed all in luxury and shame, until he was cast into the Tiber by the soldiers.
Relevant for studying diplomatic summits and territorial treaties, comparable to alliance negotiations in Versailles to Berlin: Diplomacy in Europe (1919–1945).
Alexander Severus, matris Mammate consiliis usus, iustitia et disciplina imperium renovavit.
Vita Severi Alexandri, xxv.1
Alexander Severus, employing the advice of his mother Mammaea, renewed the empire with justice and discipline.
Relevant for studying post-war reconstruction and institutional integration, comparable to economic recovery programmes in Post-war western and northern Europe (1945–2000).
Maximinus Thrax, ex corpore immani et fortitudine bellica ad imperium evectus, saevitia sua cunctis terrori fuit.
Vita Maximini, viii.1
Maximinus Thrax, raised to supreme power from his huge body and military valor, was a terror to all by his cruelty.
Relevant for studying ideological suppression and satellite state control, comparable to political realignment in Post-war central and eastern Europe (1945–2000).
Gordianus, senex sanctissimus, a provincialibus adversus Maximinum imperator appellatus, brevi fato functus est.
Vita Gordianorum, ix.1
Gordian, a most venerable old man, acclaimed emperor by the provincials against Maximinus, met a swift fate.
Relevant for studying autocratic collapse and revolutionary momentum, comparable to the fall of the Romanov dynasty in Imperial Russia, revolution and the establishment of the Soviet Union.
Philippus Arabs, saeculares ludos millesimo urbis anno ingenti apparatu celebravit.
Vita Philippi Arabis, v.1
Philippus Arabs celebrated the secular games in the thousandth year of the city with immense grandeur.
Relevant for studying military leadership and wartime mobilisation, comparable to British strategic coordination under Lloyd George during Europe and the First World War (1871–1918).
Decius imperator, pristinae disciplinae vindex, in bello Gothico fortiter pugnans cecidit.
Vita Decii, iii.1
Emperor Decius, defender of ancient discipline, fell fighting bravely in the Gothic war.
Relevant for studying emergency executive authority and civil liberties, comparable to defence regulation measures in British History during wartime crises.
Nemini se victum nisi a diis suis fateri.Vita Aureliani, xxx.4
Confessing that he was conquered by none except his own gods.
Relevant for studying authoritarian consolidation and political purges, comparable to state control mechanisms in The Soviet Union and post-Soviet Russia (1924–2000).
Gallienus, relictis imperii curis, in luxuria et voluptatibus tempus consumpsit, dum provinciae barbari vastabant.
Vita Gallieni, v.1
Gallienus, abandoning the cares of empire, spent his time in luxury and pleasure while barbarians ravaged the provinces.
Relevant for studying democratic fragility and factional polarisation, comparable to cabinet instability in European states in the inter-war years (1918–1939).
Claudius Gothicus ingenti victoria Gothos ad Danubium stravit et libertatem provincis reddidit.
Vita Claudii, vii.1
Claudius Gothicus with a huge victory shattered the Goths at the Danube and restored freedom to the provinces.
Relevant for studying diplomatic summits and territorial treaties, comparable to alliance negotiations in Versailles to Berlin: Diplomacy in Europe (1919–1945).
Aurelianus, restitutor orbis appellatus, Zenobiam vicit, Gallias recepit, muros urbi circumdedit.
Vita Aureliani, i.1
Aurelian, called restorer of the world, defeated Zenobia, recovered Gaul, and encircled the city with walls.
Relevant for studying post-war reconstruction and institutional integration, comparable to economic recovery programmes in Post-war western and northern Europe (1945–2000).
Tacitus imperator, senatui reverentiam reddidit et exemplum antiquae moderationis praebuit.Vita Taciti, vi.1
Emperor Tacitus restored reverence to the Senate and provided an example of ancient moderation.
Relevant for studying ideological suppression and satellite state control, comparable to political realignment in Post-war central and eastern Europe (1945–2000).
Probus imperator, bellis gestis, vineas per Galliam et Pannoniam ab exercitu plantari iussit.
Vita Probi, x.1
Emperor Probus, having waged wars, ordered vineyards across Gaul and Pannonia to be planted by the army.
Relevant for studying autocratic collapse and revolutionary momentum, comparable to the fall of the Romanov dynasty in Imperial Russia, revolution and the establishment of the Soviet Union.
Carus imperator, Persis victis, ultra Tigrim castra movit, ubi fulmine ictus periit.
Vita Cari, viii.1
Emperor Carus, having defeated the Persians, moved his camp beyond the Tigris, where he died struck by lightning.
Relevant for studying military leadership and wartime mobilisation, comparable to British strategic coordination under Lloyd George during Europe and the First World War (1871–1918).
Diocletianus cum Maximiano imperium partitus, tetrarchiam ad defendendum orbem terrarum constituit.
Vita Diocletiani, ix.1
Diocletian, having shared supreme command with Maximian, established the tetrarchy to defend the world.
Relevant for studying emergency executive authority and civil liberties, comparable to defence regulation measures in British History during wartime crises.
Constantinus, vicit Maxentium ad pontem Mulvium, fidem Christianam publice fovit, novam urbem condidit.
Vita Constantini, xxi.1
Constantine defeated Maxentius at the Milvian Bridge, publicly favoured the Christian faith, and founded a new city.
Relevant for studying authoritarian consolidation and political purges, comparable to state control mechanisms in The Soviet Union and post-Soviet Russia (1924–2000).
Maximianus Herculeus in Gallia et Italia res bellicas strenue gessit, Diocletiano fidissimus collega.
Vita Maximiani, viii.1
Maximian Herculeus vigorously conducted war in Gaul and Italy, a most faithful colleague to Diocletian.
Relevant for studying democratic fragility and factional polarisation, comparable to cabinet instability in European states in the inter-war years (1918–1939).
Constantius Chlorus mansuetudine et iustitia clarus, Britanniam reipublicae restituit.Vita Constantii Chlori, x.1
Constantius Chlorus, famous for gentleness and justice, restored Britain to the state.
Relevant for studying diplomatic summits and territorial treaties, comparable to alliance negotiations in Versailles to Berlin: Diplomacy in Europe (1919–1945).
Galerius Caesar saevitia in Christianos notus, in Illyrico bellis fortiter gestis imperium auxit.
Vita Galerii, ix.1
Galerius Caesar, noted for cruelty toward Christians, enlarged the empire through brave warfare in Illyricum.
Relevant for studying post-war reconstruction and institutional integration, comparable to economic recovery programmes in Post-war western and northern Europe (1945–2000).
Licinius cum Constantino imperium tenuit, sed mox discordia orta ad Cibalas victus est.
Vita Licinii, xx.1
Licinius held joint power with Constantine, but soon after discord arose he was defeated at Cibalae.
Relevant for studying ideological suppression and satellite state control, comparable to political realignment in Post-war central and eastern Europe (1945–2000).
Severus imperator leges aequissimas tulit et rem publicam in pace firmavit.
Vita Severi, xii.1
Emperor Severus passed most equitable laws and strengthened the state in peace.
Relevant for studying administrative stabilisation post-civil war in Post-war western and northern Europe (1945–2000).
Probus imperator nullum militem otiosum esse passus est.
Vita Probi, xx.2
Emperor Probus suffered no soldier to be idle.
Relevant for studying public works projects and economic mobilisation in European states in the inter-war years (1918–1939).
SENECA
Non scholae sed vitae discimus.
Epistulae Morales ad Lucilium, cvi.12
We learn not for school, but for life.
Relevant for studying educational reforms and civic instruction in Post-war western and northern Europe (1945–2000).
Per aspera ad astra.
Hercules Furens, 437
Through hardships to the stars.
Relevant for studying scientific ambition and technological breakthroughs during the Cold War in Post-war western and northern Europe (1945–2000).
Errare humanum est, perseverare diabolicum.
Epistulae Morales, lvii.3
To err is human, to persist is devilish.
Relevant for studying strategic blunders and stubborn policy adherence in Europe and the First World War (1871–1918).
Ignis aurum probat, miseria fortes viros.
De Providentia, v.9
Fire tests gold, hardship tests strong men.
Relevant for studying national endurance under economic blockade in British History.
LUCRETIUS
Tantum religio potuit suadere malorum.
De Rerum Natura, I, 101
To so many evils could religion persuade.
Relevant for studying ideological fanaticism and sectarian conflict in European states in the inter-war years (1918–1939).
Nil posse creari de nihilo.
De Rerum Natura, I, 155
Nothing can be created out of nothing.
Relevant for studying industrial production constraints during Europe and the First World War (1871–1918).
HORACE
Dulce et decorum est pro patria mori.
Carmina, III, ii.13
It is sweet and fitting to die for one's country.
Relevant for studying nationalist propaganda and wartime enlistment in Europe and the First World War (1871–1918).
Carpe diem, quam minimum credula postero.
Carmina, I, xi.8
Seize the day, trusting as little as possible in tomorrow.
Relevant for studying interwar social attitudes and existential disillusionment in European states in the inter-war years (1918–1939).
Aequam memento rebus in arduis servare mentem.
Carmina, II, iii.1
Remember to maintain an even mind in difficult circumstances.
Relevant for studying diplomatic composure during international crises in Versailles to Berlin: Diplomacy in Europe (1919–1945).
OVID
Fas est et ab hoste doceri.
Metamorphoses, IV, 428
It is right to be taught even by an enemy.
Relevant for studying military tactical adaptation and weapons technology in Europe and the First World War (1871–1918).
Gutta cavat lapidem, non vi, sed saepe cadendo.
Epistulae ex Ponto, IV, x.5
A drop of water hollows out a stone, not by force, but by falling often.
Relevant for studying gradualist diplomacy and attrition warfare in British History.
LUCAN
Victrix causa deis placuit sed victa Catoni.
Pharsalia, I, 128
The winning cause pleased the gods, but the lost cause pleased Cato.
Relevant for studying political martyrdom and ideological dissent in Imperial Russia, revolution and the establishment of the Soviet Union.
Nulla fides regni sociis omnisque potestas impatiens consortis erit.
Pharsalia, I, 92
There is no trust among partners in power, and all authority will be impatient of a partner.
Relevant for studying power struggles within the Politburo in The Soviet Union and post-Soviet Russia (1924–2000).
JUVENAL
Qu Quis custodiet ipsos custodes?
Saturae, VI, 347
Who will guard the guards themselves?
Relevant for studying constitutional checks and secret police oversight in The Soviet Union and post-Soviet Russia (1924–2000).
Panem et circenses.
Saturae, X, 81
Bread and circuses.
Relevant for studying welfare concessions and mass distraction techniques in European states in the inter-war years (1918–1939).
Mens sana in corpore sano.
Saturae, X, 356
A sound mind in a sound body.
Relevant for studying youth movement discipline and physical culture programmes in European states in the inter-war years (1918–1939).
