Julius Caesar's Fateful Decision: Crossing the Rubicon and Igniting War with the Senate

On January 7, 49 BC, the Roman Senate issued an ultimatum to Julius Caesar, urging him to disband his army or face being declared a public enemy. In response, Caesar's allies, including figures like Mark Antony, sought refuge with him in Ravenna. This pivotal juncture prompted Caesar to make the momentous choice of crossing the Rubicon River into Italy, marking the commencement of a war against the Senate and Pompey.