Marcus Furius Camillus

Marcus Furius Camillus (c. 445-365 bc), Roman soldier and statesman, who was remembered as the refounder of Rome after its destruction by the Gauls in 387 bc. During the period of the Roman Republic, Camillus served as military tribune of Rome, censor, and finally dictator (c. 403 bc). He led the Roman army against rival cities in Etruria (now in Italy), conquering Veii (396), Capena (395), and Falerii (394). It is thought he went into exile near Rome soon afterwards because he had mishandled distribution of booty following his Etruscan campaigns. About 387, while he was in exile, the Gauls plundered and burned Rome. During the recovery of Rome, Camillus became a folk hero who, according to legend, levied an army, and pursued the Gauls under Brennus out of Rome. In fact, however, the Gauls retired unharmed after Rome ransomed itself with gold. Afterwards, Camillus opposed the suggestion that the surviving population of Rome should be transferred to the Etruscan city of Veii. He worked instead to rebuild and fortify Rome. He reorganized the Roman army and made administrative reforms. His military exploits ensured Roman supremacy in central Italy. Camillus is also credited with persuading the Roman patricians to grant certain concessions to the plebeians (commoners), thus keeping peace between the two groups.