340?-273? B.C.

Roman Statesman

Appius Claudius Caecus was born as a member of the noble class of Rome in about 340 B.C. He was one of the first noteworthy personalities in early Roman history and had a significant impact on society. While he is best known for initiating the construction of the famous Roman road, the Appian Way, he was also influential in other areas. Appius was an outstanding statesmen and politician. He was responsible for the first aqueduct in Rome, provided much legal expertise and reform of the legal practice, and remained an influential member of Roman society throughout his life.

Little is known of Appius's early life. The first accounts of him are in regard to his being elected censor of Rome in 312 B.C. As a member of the noble class, Appius was quite interested in political reform. He began...