The Warning
Libertas should not be read as modern liberal democracy. It was a Roman concept rooted in status, citizenship, freedom from domination, and hatred of kingship.
Who Defended Liberty?
Roman aristocrats could defend libertas sincerely while also defending hierarchy, privilege, and their own order’s freedom to compete for office.
Why It Matters
Without this distinction, Caesar’s enemies become simple democrats and Caesar becomes a simple tyrant. The reality was far more Roman and far more complicated.