In 63 B.C., Catilina-an angry, corrupt politician-conspired with foreign powers and criminal elements to overthrow the Roman Republic. Exploiting those who suffered from inequality, he sought to destroy the republic in the name of the people. In the end, he nearly achieved through violence what he could not attain by inciting the masses with lies. This true story of the near-destruction of a great republic contains poignant lessons for the ages.