Such was the state of Europe when Julius Caesar, who was governor of
Gaul, but who aspired to be ruler of the world, set out on his first
campaign against the tribes north of the Alps (58 B.C.).
In undertaking the war he had three objects in view: First, he wished
to crush the power of those restless hordes that threatened the safety
of the Roman Republic. Next, he sought military fame in the hope that
it would make him supreme ruler of that Republic. Lastly, he wanted
money to maintain his army and to bribe the party leaders of Rome to
help him carry out his political plans. To this end he compelled
every tribe which he conquered to pay him tribute in cash or slaves.