Marcus Tullius Cicero was one of Rome’s most famous and accomplished orators, and as such held valuable influence over the Senate. A staunch supporter of the Republic, he initially rejected Caesar’s offer to join him, Pompey, and Crassus in their political alliance, but eventually succumbed to their political pressure. Having being forced into exile by the machinations of his political rival Clodius, it was Pompey who interceded in his return to political life. His attempts to remain independent of the Triumvirate having failed, he eventually pledged his support before becoming Proconsul of Cilicia in 51BC.
