Appius Claudius
(Appius Claudius Caecus)
340–273 BC |
Appius Claudius Caecus was a powerful Roman politician who made many reforms to give a voice in government to landless workers. He also published a code for legal practices, and organized the construction of Rome's first aqueduct. He was elected censor once, and consul twice. He also undertook construction of the famous "Via Appia" or "Appian Way", a road from Rome to Capua. He eventually became blind. In his later years he made a speech before the Senate, exhorting the Romans not to make peace with Pyrrhus, who had recently beaten the Roman army at Heraclea. This speech was the first Latin oratory in recorded history.
Key events during the life of Appius Claudius Caecus:
| Beginning of censorship. Started building aqueducts and Appian Way. | |
| End of censorship. | |
| First consulship. | |
| Second consulship. | |
| Speech against Pyrrhus in Senate. |
Other Resources
| Master of Strategy in | Stories from Ancient Rome by Alfred J. Church |
| Appius Claudius Caecus in | Famous Men of Rome by John H. Haaren & A. B. Poland |
Image Links | ||
|---|---|---|
 The Appian Way in Famous Men of Rome |
Ruins of the Roman Aqueducts in Historical Tales: Roman |
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| Samnite general who captured the Romans at Caudium Pass. | |
| Hero of the Battle of Sentinum, against the Gauls and Samnites. | |
| Renowned general, won victories in Macedon, Italy, and Greece, but failed to follow up wins. |