Overview
Mamercus Aemilius Lepidus Livianus (died c. 62 BC) was a Roman politician and military commander who was consul in 77 BC.
Biography
Livianus was a well connected and influential figure in Late Republican politics. A member of the aristocratic party, brother of the tribune Marcus Livius Drusus and son of the consul Marcus Livius Drusus, he was adopted into the Aemilii Lepidi. His influence was such that he was able to intercede with Lucius Cornelius Sulla on the young Julius Caesar's behalf, getting Sulla to spare Caesar's life. He was also married to Cornelia, Sulla's daughter.
Around 91 BC Livianus succeeded his brother Marcus Livius Drusus as one of the pontifices in the College of Pontiffs. He served with distinction in the Social War (91–87 BC), probably serving as legate under Quintus Caecilius Metellus Pius. He achieved some victories, most notably he was credited with killing the general of the Marsi, Quintus Poppaedius Silo, during the storming of Venusia.
Although having failed once to be elected praetor, Livianus tried again, achieving the office by 81. He ran for the office of consul in 77, achieving it only after Gaius Scribonius Curio withdrew his candidature for that year in favor of Livianus. Neither Mamercus nor his consular colleague accepted a proconsular command in Hispania to help Quintus Caecilius Metellus Pius in the Sertorian War. There is no evidence that he obtained a provincial command after his term was concluded.
From Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0).
