Orgetorix

• chief of the Helvetii, Caes. B. G. 1, 2 sq. al.

the noblest and richest among the Helvetii, anxious to obtain the royal power, formed a conspiracy of the principal chiefs in B. C. 61, and persuaded his countrymen to emigrate from their own country with a view of conquering the whole of Gaul. Two years were devoted to making the necessary preparations; but the real designs of Orgetorix having meantime transpired, the Helvetii brought him to trial for his ambitious projects. Orgetorix, however, by means of his numerous retainers, set justice at defiance; and while the Helvetii were collecting forces to compel him to submit to their laws, he suddenly died, probably, as was suspected, by his own hands. Notwithstanding his death the Helvetii carried into execution the project which he had formed, and were thus the first people with whom Caesar was brought into contact in Gaul. After their defeat a daughter of Orgetorix and one of his sons fell into the hands of Caesar. (Caes. B.G.1.2-4, 26; D. C. 38.31.)

• a chief of the Helvetii, Cs.

A noble Helvetian, the most conspicuous for rank and riches of any of his countrymen. He attempted to possess himself of the chief power in his native State (B.C. 61), and was, in consequence, summoned to trial. His retainers, however, assembled in great numbers, and prevented the case from being heard. He died not long after, having fallen, as was supposed, by his own hands ( B. G. i. 2, 26; Dio Cass. xxxviii. 31).