Why did Pompey become Julius Caesar’s political enemy?

Pompey the Great and Julius Caesar were initially allies in an unofficial partnership known as the First Triumvirate, but their relationship deteriorated due to shifting political interests and the loss of personal ties.12

Several key factors drove them into opposition:

• Loss of Personal Bonds: The death of Julia, Caesar’s daughter and Pompey’s wife, in 54 BCE removed the strongest personal link between the two men.13
• Erosion of Common Interests: Following the death of the third triumvir, Crassus, in 53 BCE, Pompey and Caesar were left as rivals with no shared goals.13
• Political Maneuvering: Pompey grew increasingly suspicious of Caesar’s rising prestige and wealth, which rivaled his own. Pompey eventually aligned himself with the Roman oligarchy, who viewed him as a necessary protector against Caesar.34
• Legislative Conflict: Pompey’s legislation in 52 BCE, including laws against bribery and rules regarding provincial commands, was perceived by Caesar’s allies as being specifically designed to undermine Caesar’s political safety and force him to disband his army.4
• The Struggle for Control: The Senate, supported by Pompey, demanded that Caesar relinquish his command in Gaul. Caesar refused, fearing his political career would end, which ultimately led to the Senate declaring a state of war and Caesar crossing the Rubicon in 49 BCE.435