Ides of March

Ides of March is an ancient Roman holiday that has become entrenched in universal history. It falls on March 15 and is fixed by the ancient Roman calendar. This day is associated with the assassination of Julius Caesar as a result of a conspiracy by those close to him.

History

The name of the holiday comes from the Latin word “Idus,” which means the middle of the month. And the holiday is on the 15th only in March, May, July, and October. In other months, the number changes to 13. What happened on that day that made the Ides of March remain forever in history?

The conspiracy against Caesar, whose power was constantly increasing, began with the general and statesman Gaius Cassius Longinus in 44 B.C. He assembled a small group of men close to him to organize the assassination. A close person familiar with Caesar was needed to accomplish the task.

It was decided to turn to Marcus Junius Brutus, who was on friendly terms with Caesar. He involved his brother and people close to him in the plot. Caesar was repeatedly warned of an assassination being prepared for March (an ancient Roman holiday falling on March 15, from which the date of the celebration actually originated), but he rejected them. Caesar had to come to the Senate, but he had his doubts, which Brutus dispelled. Surrounding the emperor in the building, the conspirators began stabbing him. The governor defended himself until he saw Brutus’ men among his attackers. This event also gave rise to the creation of another holiday, National Brutus Day, dedicated to betrayal by loved ones.

Interesting facts

• The Ides of March is popularly regarded as a dark holiday, with various superstitions associated with it because of its sad history of Caesar’s assassination as the result of a conspiracy.
• March 15 has grim significance for Czechoslovakia, now divided into two separate countries. On this date in 1939, the Germans occupied the country.
• The Simpsons episode “Homer the Great,” released in early January 1995, is full of references to the Ides of March.

How to celebrate

Learn more about the killing of Caesar on the Ides of March. Given the superstitions, it is better to devote the holiday to recreation or entertainment. You should not make any serious decisions or work through any important issues on this day.

Spread the word on social media. Ask other users if any unpleasant events in their lives are related to this date.

When is Ides of March in 2025?

Ides of March is observed on March 15 each year.

Observations