Singular of optimates, a member of the traditionalist, conservative wing of the Senate in the Late Republic.
Optimas
Fact of the Day
The name 'Plantagenet' probably comes from the sprig of broom (planta genista) Henry II's father Geoffrey used to keep in his helmet.
Quote of the Day
"First they came for the Socialists, and I did not speak out—Because I was not a Socialist.
Then they came for the Trade Unionists, and I did not speak out—
Because I was not a Trade Unionist.
Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak out—
Because I was not a Jew.
Then they came for me—and there was no one left to speak for me.
"
~ Martin Niemöller
On This Day
1805 Nelson died at the Battle of Trafalgar.
1944 After a gruelling battle lasting 19 days, Aachen became the first German city to fall to the Allies in the Second World War.
1966 On the day before half term, 116 children and 28 adults were killed when a colliery spoil tip collapsed onto the school at Aberfan.