Capua in Roman Politics Between 59 and 36 BCE

Abstract

In the present study, I focus on the significance of Capua in Roman politics between 59 BCE, when the town officially became a colony, and 36 BCE, when Octavian settled new colonists in the town. I argue that, despite the numerous promises of Roman politicians, only in 36 BCE new Roman colonists were introduced to the town, even though a colony was formally created before that time. Moreover, I explain the causes and circumstances that prompted Caesar not to establish a colony in Capua after 47 BCE, as well as the reasons that led Mark Antony to found a colony there. I highlight Capua as a flashpoint between Mark Antony and Octavian and argue against the traditional view that Octavian founded a colony there immediately after the Battle of Philippi.