Marius, Gaius, << MAR ee uhs, GAY uhs >> (157-86 B.C.), was a Roman general and statesman. He was not of noble ancestry, but he worked his way into political leadership. He served seven times as one of the two consuls (chief government officials) of Rome, between 107 and 86 B.C. He opposed Rome’s aristocratic oligarchy (rule by a few).
As a general, Marius reorganized Rome’s infantry legions, improved training methods, and opened military service to men of the lowest social classes. A strong professional army developed. The troops, if treated well, often became more loyal to their generals than to the state, so successful military command became a means to political power. Marius was born near Arpinum, in central Italy. He won his greatest military victories against the Numidians in North Africa, and the Cimbri and Teutone tribes in northern Italy. He died on Jan. 12, 86 B.C.
