Caesar Crossing Reading Passage
Ancient Rome • Grade 3 Reading
Julius Caesar and the Rubicon
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Reading Passage • Chapter 10 Focus
124 words • 3 paragraphs
Julius Caesar was a brave Roman general who led his soldiers to victory in Gaul. When Caesar began marching his loyal army home, the Roman leaders grew worried. They feared Caesar wanted too much power. The Senate ordered him to halt at the Rubicon River.
Caesar decided to take a huge risk. In 49 BC, he marched his army across the river. This bold choice sparked a civil war against his rival, Pompey. Caesar won the war and took control of Rome.
As leader, Caesar made many helpful changes. He created a new calendar that named the month of July after him. However, Caesar soon named himself dictator for life. Fearing he would destroy Rome's republic, a group of senators plotted and killed him.
civil war
A war fought between groups of people belonging to the same country or state.
dictator
A ruler who holds complete power over the government and its people.
Check for Understanding
1. Why were the Roman leaders worried when Caesar began marching his army home?
A They wanted him to stay in Egypt.
B They feared he wanted too much power.
C His soldiers refused to cross the river.
D They wanted him to make a new calendar.
2. What major risk did Caesar take at the Rubicon River, and what happened because of his choice?
Unit 4: Stories of Ancient Rome Standard: TEKS 3.6.G (Key Ideas & Details)
