Emperor Caligula, known for his eccentric and controversial reign, shocked ancient Rome when he made his horse, Incitatus, a senator. This event occurred during the early 1st century AD, when Caligula ruled as the third Roman Emperor.

Caligula's decision to appoint his horse as a senator was seen by many as a symbol of his arrogance and disregard for the political institutions of Rome. While some historians believe that it was a deliberate act of mockery, others argue that it was simply a result of his unpredictable and erratic behavior.

The horse, Incitatus, was reportedly treated with great luxury, living in a marble stall with an ivory manger. Caligula was said to have even considered making Incitatus a consul, a highly esteemed position in Roman politics. However, before this could happen, Caligula was assassinated in 41 AD, cutting short his reign and any further plans involving his beloved horse.

Despite the peculiar nature of this event, it is important to note that the appointment of Incitatus as a senator had no real impact on the functioning of the Roman Senate. The Senate, composed of Roman aristocrats, continued to conduct its affairs without interference from the horse. It was merely a reflection of Caligula's controversial and extravagant rule.

Caligula's reign was marked by his extravagant spending, scandals, and a growing sense of fear and unease among the Roman population. His appointment of Incitatus as a senator was just one of many bizarre actions that contributed to his legacy as a tyrannical and unpredictable ruler.

In conclusion, Emperor Caligula shockingly appointed his horse, Incitatus, as a senator during his reign in ancient Rome. While this act was met with astonishment and criticism, it ultimately had no impact on the functioning of the Roman Senate. Instead, it served as a testament to Caligula's eccentric and controversial rule, leaving a lasting impression on the history of the Roman Empire.

Sign Up