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Aulus Cornelius CossusAncient Roman politician, military tribune with consular power 437 BC.
Date of Birth: .
Country:  Italy |
Content:
- Aulus Cornelius Cossus: Roman Warrior and Politician
- Triumph and Pontificate
- Consulship and Later Years
- Physical Appearance
Aulus Cornelius Cossus: Roman Warrior and Politician
Early Life and Military SuccessBorn into the prominent Cornelii family, Aulus Cornelius Cossus emerged as a formidable Roman politician and military commander. In 437 BCE or possibly 426 BCE, he served as a military tribune with consular authority.
During the battle against Veii and its allies, Cossus's valor shone brightly. According to the historian Titus Livius, Cossus personally slew the Veian king, Lars Tolumnius, exclaiming:
> "Is this the one who violated the treaty between humans, who trampled on the law of nations? Then this is he, if the gods desire that anything sacred remain on earth, that I will strike down, sacrificing him to the spirits of the ambassadors."
Triumph and Pontificate
Following this heroic act, Cossus participated in the triumph, carrying the armor of the slain king, a highly prized trophy known as "spolia opima." He later dedicated it to Jupiter, demonstrating his piety. Around 431 BCE, Cossus ascended to the prestigious position of Great Pontiff.
Consulship and Later Years
In 428 BCE, Cossus reached the pinnacle of Roman politics when he became consul. Titus Livius also mentions Aulus Cornelius Cossus among the military tribunes in 426 BCE, though it is unclear if this refers to the same individual. Cossus is believed to have died in 420 BCE.
Physical Appearance
Titus Livius, writing centuries later, described Cossus as an exceptionally handsome man, a testament to his well-rounded character that encompassed both military prowess and political acumen.
