Gaius Carrinas (consul) facts for kids
Gaius Carrinas was an important Roman politician and a skilled general. He lived during a very busy time in Roman history, when many powerful leaders were fighting for control. Carrinas played a part in some of these big events, serving under famous figures like Julius Caesar and Octavian, who later became Emperor Augustus.
Contents
Gaius Carrinas: A Roman General
Gaius Carrinas was a Roman leader who served as a general and later as a consul, one of the highest positions in the Roman Republic. He was known for his military skills and his loyalty to powerful Roman figures.
Early Career and Challenges
In 45 BC, Gaius Carrinas was sent by Julius Caesar to Spain. His mission was to fight against Sextus Pompeius and Gnaeus Pompeius, who were still resisting Caesar's rule. Carrinas tried his best, but he wasn't able to completely defeat them. Because of this, Caesar sent another general, Gaius Asinius Pollio, to take over the command.
Important Roles and Victories
After Caesar's death, Rome was ruled by three powerful men known as the Second Triumvirate. In 43 BC, Carrinas was chosen to be a consul for part of that year, alongside Publius Ventidius Bassus. This was a very important job, showing he was trusted by the new leaders.
Later, in 41 BC, Octavian (who would become the first Roman Emperor, Augustus) made Carrinas the governor of Spain. While there, Carrinas led Roman forces in a war against Bocchus II, a local king.
In 36 BC, Octavian again called on Carrinas's military skills. He sent Carrinas with three legions (large groups of soldiers) to Sicily to fight against Sextus Pompeius once more.
One of Carrinas's greatest achievements came in 31 BC. He was made the governor of Gaul (a region that included parts of modern-day France). There, he successfully fought against the rebellious Morini people. He also managed to push back the Suebi, a Germanic tribe, who had crossed the Rhine River and invaded Roman territory. For these important victories, Carrinas was honored with a special parade called a triumph in 29 BC. A triumph was a huge celebration in Rome, given to generals who had achieved great military successes.
Family Background
Gaius Carrinas was the son of another important Roman figure, also named Gaius Carrinas. His father was a commander who supported the Roman general Marius. The Carrinas family likely came from a region in Italy called Umbria, and they were a separate Roman family group, or gens.
See also
- Carrinatia gens
