Cincinnatus (519–430 BCE)

Question 1

Who was Cincinnatus?

Answer 1

Cincinnatus was a Roman statesman and military leader known for his modesty and civic virtue.

Question 2

What did Cincinnatus do after his consulship?

Answer 2

He retired to his farm and lived a simple, agrarian life.

Question 3

In what year did Cincinnatus famously become dictator of Rome?

Answer 3

Cincinnatus became dictator in 458 BCE.

Question 4

What was the most significant achievement of Cincinnatus’ dictatorship?

Answer 4

He led the Roman army to victory against the Aequi in 16 days and then relinquished his power.

Question 5

Why is Cincinnatus considered a symbol of civic virtue?

Answer 5

He is considered a symbol of civic virtue for surrendering his absolute power after resolving a crisis, prioritizing the common good.

Question 6

During which political period of Rome did Cincinnatus live?

Answer 6

Cincinnatus lived during the early Roman Republic.

Question 7

What was the political environment like during Cincinnatus’ life?

Answer 7

The Roman Republic was marked by tension between the patricians and plebeians and frequent wars with neighboring tribes.

Question 8

What tribe did Cincinnatus defeat in 458 BCE?

Answer 8

Cincinnatus defeated the Aequi tribe.

Question 9

What important precedent did Cincinnatus set for Roman leadership?

Answer 9

Cincinnatus set the precedent that leaders should relinquish power after fulfilling their duty.

Question 10

What city in the United States is named after Cincinnatus?

Answer 10

The city of Cincinnati is named after Cincinnatus.

Question 11

What organization was founded in the U.S. to honor Cincinnatus’ legacy?

Answer 11

The Society of the Cincinnati, founded by officers of the American Revolution, honors his legacy.

Question 12

What challenges did Cincinnatus face in his political career?

Answer 12

Cincinnatus faced political challenges due to his son’s controversies and his opposition to expanding plebeian rights.

Question 13

How long did Cincinnatus hold dictatorial power during his first term?

Answer 13

Cincinnatus held dictatorial power for only 16 days.

Question 14

True or False: Cincinnatus kept his power after the military crisis was over.

Answer 14

False. Cincinnatus returned to his farm after the crisis was resolved.

Question 15

Fill in the blank: Cincinnatus is remembered as a model of _______ leadership.

Answer 15

selfless

Question 16

Why is Cincinnatus admired in modern governance?

Answer 16

He is admired for his example of relinquishing power and serving the state rather than exploiting it.

Question 17

True or False: Cincinnatus came from a plebeian family.

Answer 17

False. Cincinnatus came from a patrician family.

Question 18

What was the name of Cincinnatus’ son involved in controversies?

Answer 18

His son’s name was Caeso Quinctius.

Question 19

Fill in the blank: Cincinnatus lived during a time of tension between the patrician ruling class and the _______.

Answer 19

plebeians

Question 20

What humorous modern take is associated with Cincinnatus’ story?

Answer 20

People joke that he solved a major crisis during his lunch break and then casually returned to farming like nothing happened.