Orgetorix

Orgetorix was a wealthy and noble Helvetian chieftain who lived in the first century BC. He is primarily known from Julius Caesar's account in his Commentaries on the Gallic War. Orgetorix sought to gain control of the Helvetii, a Celtic tribe residing in what is now Switzerland.

Caesar states that Orgetorix conspired with other noblemen of the Helvetii to seize power. He was able to persuade his countrymen to undertake a migration from their ancestral lands, believing this would make them masters of all Gaul. Orgetorix amassed significant resources and influence, even forming alliances with neighboring tribes.

His ambition, however, led to his downfall. Caesar's writings suggest that Orgetorix was discovered to be plotting to take over the entire Gallic chieftainship. As a result, he was summoned to answer charges. Before he could be brought to trial, Orgetorix escaped and rallied his followers. Ultimately, he died before the planned Helvetian migration could commence, with Caesar suggesting he committed suicide. His actions and the subsequent Helvetian migration were a significant event that drew Caesar into Gaul, marking the beginning of the Gallic Wars.