Ides of March

Ides of March is an ancient Roman date that became firmly embedded in world history. It falls on March 15 according to the Roman calendar and is widely remembered as the day Julius Caesar was assassinated during a conspiracy led by several of his closest associates.

History

The name of the day comes from the Latin word “Idus,” meaning the middle of the month. The Ides fall on the 15th day only in March, May, July, and October; in other months, they occur on the 13th. But what happened on this date that made the Ides of March so significant?

The conspiracy against Caesar, whose power had been steadily growing, began in 44 B.C. and was initiated by the general and statesman Gaius Cassius Longinus. He began gathering supporters to plan Caesar’s assassination, but the plot lacked someone close enough to the ruler to ensure success.

That person became Marcus Junius Brutus, a respected politician who had a personal relationship with Caesar. Brutus joined the conspiracy and helped expand it. Despite multiple warnings about threats against his life, Caesar ignored them. On March 15, he went to the Senate, reassured in part by Brutus. Inside the building, the conspirators surrounded Caesar and attacked. He fought back until he recognized Brutus among them. The dramatic assassination became one of the most defining events in Roman history and even inspired another modern holiday, National Brutus Day.

Interesting Facts

• The Ides of March is often viewed as an ominous date because of Caesar’s assassination, giving rise to many superstitions.
• March 15 is historically significant for Czechoslovakia: on this date in 1939, German forces occupied the country.
• The Simpsons episode “Homer the Great,” released in January 1995, contains several references to the Ides of March.

How to Take Part

Learn more about the assassination of Caesar and its impact on Roman history. Because of the superstitions surrounding the date, many people choose to focus on light activities, relaxation, or entertainment on this day instead of making major decisions.

Share the story of the Ides of March on social media. Ask others whether this date holds any personal associations for them.

When is Ides of March in 2026?

Ides of March is observed on March 15 each year.

Observations