Pompey, Cato, and the Governance of the Roman Empire

This book examines attempts to improve provincial governance from 70–50, particularly the contributions of Gnaeus Pompeius Magnus and the younger Marcus Porcius Cato. It contends that Romans of the late republic were more concerned about the problems of their empire than is generally recognized, and were taking steps to address them. These efforts ranged well beyond the sanctions of the extortion law to encompass show trials, exemplary governance, and ideas drawn from moral philosophy, culminating in 52–50 in a reform programme which combined what Cicero called ‘Cato’s policy’ of ethical governance with Pompey’s lex de provinciis, a law which transformed the very nature of provincial command. The book also demonstrates that Pompey and Cato, two figures usually seen as combatants, were capable of collaborating in the cause of reform. The opening chapters examine Pompey’s engagement with problems of imperial governance in his first consulship and in his eastern campaigns, and Cato’s Stoic view of empire. Next, attention turns to the extortion law passed by Julius Caesar in 59 and subsequent attempts by Pompey and Cato to extend its penalties to equestrian officials. The final chapters detail the aims, context, legislative framework, and implementation of the reform programme pursued by Pompey, Cato, and others in 52–50, from the catalyzing effect of Marcus Crassus’ defeat in Parthia to Cato and Cicero’s efforts to promote a new ethos of provincial governance. This programme was cut short by civil war, but provided an important model for Augustus’ reforms.