Florida Teacher Certification Examinations (FTCE) Subject Area Practice Test

Whom did Julius Caesar defeat to gain control of the Roman Senate?

1. Pompeii

2. Cassius

3. Brutus

4. Crassus

The correct answer is: Pompeii

Julius Caesar's rise to power and control of the Roman Senate was marked by his conflict with Pompey the Great, who was initially part of the First Triumvirate alongside Caesar and Crassus. As political tensions escalated, particularly after Crassus's death in 53 BC and the breakdown of their alliance, Pompey aligned himself with the Senate and sought to limit Caesar's military and political influence. The rivalry culminated in a civil war that began in 49 BC when Caesar crossed the Rubicon River, effectively declaring war on Pompey and the Senate. After a series of battles, Caesar emerged victorious over Pompey, who fled to Egypt and was subsequently killed. This victory solidified Caesar's power and allowed him to dominate the Roman political landscape, effectively gaining control of the Senate.