Gaius Marius was one of the most remarkable and important figures of the late Roman Republic. At a time when power tended to be the reserve of a restricted clique of families, he rose from relatively humble origins to attain the top office of consul. Better yet, he went on to hold the post an unprecedented seven times. This political career was built on military success. First serving in the Numantine War in Spain, he rose to high command and brought a long-running war in North Africa to a successful conclusion, bringing the Numidian King Jurgurtha back in chains. His return was timely as...