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In his quest to further consolidate power, Caesar expanded the Senate dramatically, increasing its size from 300 to 900 by incorporating members from the provincial elite and his former military officers. This act, intended to secure his influence, fueled suspicion among traditional Roman elites, particularly those aligned with Pompey, accusing him of authoritarianism and tyranny. As sentiment grew against him, whispers of a potential monarchy began to echo through the streets of Rome—an alarming concept given that the Republic had been founded on the overthrow of their last king, Tarquin the Proud, in 509 BC.