The motivations of the conspirators were complex. Some feared that Caesar’s control of the government would lead to the abolition of the Republic and the establishment of a monarchy. Others were motivated by personal grievances, as they saw Caesar's rise as a direct challenge to their power and influence. Among the conspirators was Marcus Junius Brutus, who was particularly significant due to his close relationship with Caesar; Brutus was said to be Caesar’s illegitimate son, though this claim is debated by historians.
The conspirators believed that by assassinating Caesar, they could restore the power of the Senate and preserve the Roman Republic. However, their actions would have far-reaching consequences that they could not have anticipated.
The Assassination
On the morning of March 15, 44 BC—the Ides of March—Caesar was scheduled to attend a meeting of the Senate at the Theatre of Pompey in Rome. The conspirators had arranged for a number of them to be present at the Senate, where they would carry out the assassination.
As Caesar entered the Senate chamber, he was surrounded by the conspirators. According to historical accounts, he was first approached by Tullius Cimber, who petitioned him for a pardon. As Caesar motioned for Cimber to be allowed entry, the first conspirator, Publius Servilius Casca, struck Caesar in the neck with a dagger. The attack quickly turned into a frenzied assault, with multiple senators stabbing Caesar. It is said that Caesar was stabbed 23 times in total.
According to the historian Suetonius, Caesar’s last words were "Et tu, Brute?" ("And you, Brutus?"), a phrase that has become one of the most famous in history. This line suggests that Caesar was shocked by Brutus' involvement in the plot, particularly given their close relationship. However, some historians argue that these words may have been a dramatic addition, as there is no definitive evidence that Caesar uttered them. shutdown123