Marcus Tullius Cicero (106-43 BC) was a philosopher and statesman in ancient Rome. Born to a wealthy family, Cicero devoted his youth to the study of rhetoric and philosophy. He entered public life as a lawyer and quickly gained a reputation as the greatest orator of his time. As his fame spread, Cicero rose the political ranks, eventually reaching Rome’s highest elected office of Consul. In this capacity, Cicero exposed and suppressed an attempted coup to overthrow the Senate. As demagogues and military dictators plagued the Roman Republic during its descent to tyranny and empire, Cicero consistently defended the ideals of republicanism, ultimately costing him his life. He left behind dozens of speeches, letters, and philosophical treatises. Cicero’s eloquent writings shaped European intellectual life for centuries. His works on natural law and his speeches in defense of republican government inspired many American founders, such as John Adams and Thomas Jefferson.