Julius Caesar (100-44 B.C.E.): From a bust in the British Museum. Julius Caesar was a famous Roman general who defeated the tribes of ancient Gaul (modern-day France). He defied Roman tradition when he led his troops back into Italy across the Rubicon River. Fearful of Caesar's popularity and power, members of the Roman Senate conspired to assassinate him. Julius, born on July 13, 100 B.C.E., was killed on the Ides of March--March 15, 44 B.C.E. Click here to enlarge this image.