What is lucius opimius?

Lucius Opimius was a Roman politician and military commander who lived during the late 2nd century BC. He is known for his role in suppressing a rebellion led by the populist politician Gaius Gracchus in 121 BC.

Opimius served as consul in 121 BC and was tasked with maintaining order in Rome during a time of social and political unrest. Gracchus had proposed a series of reforms aimed at helping the poor and limiting the power of the wealthy elite, but the Senate viewed him as a dangerous threat to the established order.

When Gracchus and his supporters gathered on the Aventine Hill to resist arrest, Opimius was given permission to use force to restore order. He led a group of armed men to the hill and attacked the protesters, killing Gracchus and many of his supporters.

Despite criticism from some quarters for his harsh tactics, Opimius was celebrated by many as a defender of Roman law and order. He continued to hold important political positions after the suppression of the rebellion, but his reputation was forever tainted by his role in the violent confrontation.