Brutus, Lucius Junius (flourished 6th century BC), one of the founders of the Roman Republic. According to legend, he feigned idiocy in order to escape being put to death by his uncle, the legendary Roman king Lucius Tarquinius Superbus. Brutus and the two sons of Tarquinius, visiting the Delphic oracle, were told that he who first kissed his mother would be the next king of Rome. Back in Italy, Brutus pretended to stumble and kissed "Mother Earth." He then waited for a favorable opportunity to lead a revolt against the king, and, about 509 BC, found it in the indignation of the people following the rape of Lucretia, wife of the king's nephew, by Sextus, the king's son. The Tarquins were driven from Rome, a republican form of government was adopted, and Brutus was elected one of the first two consuls. Legend also has it that Brutus killed his two sons because they conspired to restore the Tarquins.

More Biographies...

Search what you need