Lucius Quinctius Cincinnatus

Cincinnatus was born in Rome in 519 BC. to a prominent aristocratic family. He was an aristocrat who was consul in 460 BC and dictator in 458 BC and later in 439 BC; he was widely regarded as a paragon of Roman virtus and rectitude.

His son Caeso Quinctius often drove the tribunes of the plesbians from the forum, preventing them from reaching decisions. Caeso’s actions brought a capital charge against him in 461.

Release on bail, Caeso fled Rome and sought refuge with Etrurians. He was then tried in absentia, convicted and sentenced to death. Also Cincinnatus was forced to pay an immense fine. He had to sell most of his property, and lived in greatly reduced circumstances on a small farm.

In 460 BC, Cincinnatus was elected consul. In 458 BC Rome was under attack. Cincinnatus left his farm to become dictator, lead an army, and save the city. Sixteen days later he gave up his power and went back to his family.
Lucius Quinctius Cincinnatus