Saturninus, Lucius Appuleius

(died 100 BC) Roman politician. From 104 he opposed the Senate, which objected to his populist positions. As tribune (103) he supported Rome's proletariat by reducing the price of grain, assigning land grants to veterans, and setting up a court to try cases of treason. The consul, Gaius Marius, initially supported him but later withdrew his backing. When Saturninus and his followers seized the Capitoline Hill, Marius restored order, locking the leaders of the action in the Senate house. Their enemies tore off the roof and stoned them to death. The Senate then rescinded most of Saturninus's legislation, but his land grants seem to have been recognized.

Find more information on Saturninus, Lucius Appuleius. Upgrade to Britannica Online for more on Saturninus, Lucius Appuleius.