In 49 B.C. on the banks of the Rubicon, Julius Caesar faced a critical choice. To remain in Gaul meant forfeiting his power to his enemies in Rome ... that civil war would most likely ensue ...

Many senators had been killed in the civil war that brought Julius Caesar to power in 46 BC ... took its lead from the emperor and, in most important areas, was only an advisory body.

Rome wasn't built in a day, but if you only have a day to see it, travel host Rick Steves recommends doing the Caesar Shuffle ... the Forum "arguably the most important piece of real estate ...