Steve Benson for February 12, 2017

  1. Tj
    • Thomas  about 7 years ago

    Caligula accepted the powers of the Principate as conferred by the senate and entered Rome amid a partisan crowd that hailed him as our baby and our star. Caligula described himself as the first emperor who was admired by everyone in all the world, from the rising to the setting sun. He was loved by many because he was not Tiberius.

    To gain support, he granted bonuses to the military, including the Praetorian Guard, city troops and the army outside Italy. Caligula, by Imperial decree, ended treason trials, and restored exiled traitors to positions of influence. He rewarded loyal patricians by altering the imperial tax system. He also banished certain sexual deviants and put on lavish spectacles for the public, including gladiatorial games.

    In October 37 AD Caligula became seriously ill. He quickly recovered, but the illness marked a turning point. Afterwards the emperor became a murderous tyrant, killing off or exiling those who opposed or were close to him. His uncle Claudius was spared only because Caligula preferred to keep him as a laughing stock.

     •  Reply
  2. L
    ahab  about 7 years ago

    Our tyrant’s illness preceded his tainted election.

     •  Reply
  3. Tf 117
    RAGs  about 7 years ago

    Where’s the sickle to go with his hammer?

     •  Reply
  4. Birthcontrol
    Dtroutma  about 7 years ago

    But he has bone spurs and can’t lift the hammer, or serve his country as his “mlitary school” training prepared him to do in Viet Nam!

     •  Reply
  5. Bill
    Mr. Blawt  about 7 years ago

    He has his hammer, we all look like nails.

     •  Reply
Sign in to comment

More From Steve Benson