CATO the Younger (Marcus Porcius Cato) 95-46 BC

M. Porcius Cato, also known as Cato Uticensis (=of Utica, near Carthage), was born in 95 BC and was the great-grandson of the famous Cato the Censor (234-149 BC). He became quaestor in 65 BC, and his conduct gave him a reputation for frugality and honesty. He opposed the First Triumvirate, comprising Julius Caesar, Pompey the Great, and Marcus Crassus. He also opposed Pompey's demand on returning from his victories in the East for land for his veterans, a step that had become the means of building a personal following. In 60 Cato opposed the candidacy of Julius Caesar for the consulship. However, following Caesar's brilliant victory over the Pompeians at Thupsus, Cato realised he had backed the wrong horse and committed suicide by falling on his sword. Later generations revered him as a great patriot.

Cato was the father-in-law of Marcus Brutus.