Orgetorix facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Orgetorix
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An example of the Orgetorix coins minted among the Helvetii during the time of Orgetorix's magistracy, when he was preparing the state for migration but his conspiracy was yet undiscovered. Orgetorix is spelled {O}RCIITI{R}[IX], with the C for G and the II for E.
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| Born | unknown |
| Died | 61 BC |
| Occupation | Aristocrat |
| Known for | Conspiracy to take control of Gaul |
Orgetorix was a very rich and important leader among the Helvetii people. The Helvetii spoke a Celtic language and lived in what is now Switzerland. Orgetorix lived during the time of Julius Caesar, a famous Roman leader.
Contents
Orgetorix's Big Plan
In 61 BC, Orgetorix convinced the Helvetii to move from their homeland. They planned to travel to southwestern Gaul, which is modern-day France. This was a huge undertaking for their entire tribe.
A Secret Agreement
Orgetorix also made a secret deal with two other powerful leaders. These were Dumnorix from the Aedui tribe and Casticus from the Sequani tribe. Their plan was to take control of their own tribes by force. Together, they hoped to rule most of Gaul.
The Plan is Discovered
However, someone found out about Orgetorix's secret plan. He was then called to a meeting by the Helvetii government. He had to appear in chains, like a prisoner. Orgetorix arrived with a small army of his own supporters. This show of force helped him get released.
Orgetorix's Mysterious Death
Soon after, Orgetorix died under mysterious circumstances. Even with his death, the Helvetii decided to continue with their migration plans.
The Helvetii Migration and Caesar
In 58 BC, the Helvetii began their journey. But they were stopped and defeated by Julius Caesar and his Roman army. Caesar forced them to return to their original lands. This event marked the beginning of the Gallic War. In this war, Caesar eventually took control of all of Gaul.
Orgetorix's Social Standing
According to Julius Caesar's writings, Orgetorix was the wealthiest and most important person among the Helvetii. He acted as a representative for his people to other Gallic tribes. He even gave his own daughter to Dumnorix in marriage. This was a way to show his honest intentions and strengthen their alliance. Orgetorix wanted to become one of three rulers of Gaul, but his plan did not succeed.
The Helvetii's Migration Preparations
The Helvetii made careful plans for their big move. Caesar wrote that they spent two years growing crops and buying animals for the journey. They intended to start their migration in the third year. This huge effort also involved marriages and alliances among young nobles from the three tribes.
The Secret Plot to Rule Gaul
Orgetorix secretly planned to take over all of Gaul. He wanted Dumnorix and Casticus to be his co-rulers. The Helvetii people did not know that Orgetorix was making a deal. He intended to use their soldiers to conquer Gaul, not just to migrate. If his plot had worked, the Aeduans, Sequanians, and Helvetians would have controlled all of Gaul.
Trial and Death of Orgetorix
Other leaders among the Helvetii found out about Orgetorix's plot. They decided to put him on trial. If found guilty, he would be burned to death. To avoid this, Orgetorix gathered many personal followers. He also called up an army of over 10,000 armed men. These were in addition to his clients and other supporters.
Roman stories say that Orgetorix managed to avoid facing his trial. But as the officials tried to clear the crowd of people, Orgetorix died. Despite his death, the Helvetii still tried to carry out their migration.
See also
- List of unsolved deaths
- Jublains archeological site - inscriptions there say he helped pay for a building
Sources
- Dio Cassius, Roman History 38.31
- Julius Caesar, Commentarii de Bello Gallico
- Orosius, Seven Books of History Against the Pagans 6.7
