Catiline Conspiracy

The Catiline Conspiracy was a plot led by a Roman senator named Lucius Sergius Catilina (Catiline) in 63 BCE. Discontent with the current government, Catiline aimed to overthrow the Roman Republic by assassinating prominent senators and seizing power. The conspiracy was exposed by the orator Cicero, who was then consul. Cicero delivered powerful speeches, convincing the Senate of the threat. Catiline's supporters were arrested, and he fled the city. Eventually, Catiline was defeated in battle. This event highlighted political tensions in Rome and the struggle between established elites and ambitious outsiders.