Title: Biography for Kids: Gaius Marius
Headings: Biography of Gaius Marius
Ancient Rome
Biography of Gaius Marius

Content: He passed laws changing how the votes were counted in order to keep the wealthy from intimidating voters. Although the patricians didn't like Marius, the people did. Marius then went to Spain where he became very wealthy. Elected as Consul
Upon returning to Rome, Marius used his recently gained wealth to marry into a patrician family. With his newfound connections, Marius was elected consul for the first time. Over the next several years, Marius would be elected consul a total of seven times, more than anyone in the history of Rome. Recruiting a New Army
While Marius was consul, Italy was invaded by several Germanic tribes. Marius needed men to fight the huge army of barbarians. In the past, soldiers had been rich landholders who would provide their own weapons and armor. However, there weren't enough landholders to form a strong army.