Eli5: Why was it world-changing that Caesar crossed the Rubicon?
In: 1397
Some context: Rome at this time was controlled by the senate, a group of aristocratic elites. Since getting rid of their King, the senators developed a ‘crab in the bucket’ mentality, turning on any member who became too popular/powerful, lest they attempt to become King themselves.
At the time of the Rubicon, Caesar had just conquered Gaul (modern France), making him the richest and most famous politician in Rome. Also, Caesar was a populist, who was loved by the common masses. He also still had control of his battle hardened legions.
The Senate fearing Caesars growing power, declared him an enemy of the state, decreeing that he must disband his armies and turn himself into the Senate.
Caesar instead chose to invade Italy proper from Gaul with his army, the boundary being the river Rubicon. By crossing with his army, Caesar openly declared war on the Senate, starting another round of civil wars.
Crossing the Rubicon was the point of no return. Caesar is quoted; “The die is cast.”
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