Augustus Caesar, Rome’s first emperor, once said “I found Rome a city of bricks and made it a city of marble” (Koellhoffer 38). From January 16, 27 BC to August 14 AD, Caesar's reign in Rome established and stabilized the Roman Empire following the gradual decline of the Roman Republic and its eventual collapse, forever influencing Roman life, politics, and future events such as the Renaissance. To qualify as the greatest leader in European history, one must possess the fortitude and the leadership skills to unite their people and guide them toward one common objective. Caesar exceeds these qualifications. Although known for being an egomaniac and accruing too much power, Caesar was the greatest leader in European history because of his ability …show more content…
Caesar invested in Rome’s infrastructure by overseeing the construction of public roads and facilities (Wolverton). Caesar's infrastructural and cosmetic upgrades to Rome were very popular with Romans because it demonstrated his devotion to traditional Roman values. Without these refurbishments, Roman life would not have been as advanced and vibrant. In addition, when taxes fell short, Caesar would cover the difference using his own money (Caesar 41). Caesar did not pay the tax shortages out of kindness, but instead did it to stabilize the economy and avoid bankruptcy. Without Caesar's tax coverages, Rome would not have been as financially stable, and he would not have been as popular among Romans. Caesar recognized the vital role currency played in making a stable economy (Rattini). With his understanding of economics, Caesar created a gold-based currency. Without currency, Rome would have relied on bartering, a less advanced form of trade. Ultimately, much of Rome’s success and future influence was due to its strong economy, which Caesar established through refurbishing Rome’s infrastructure, creating a gold-based currency, and covering tax