When Julius Caesar began reshaping Rome's constitutional framework, he had three goals: suppress the resistance occurring in the provinces, unite the republic into a single unit, and establish a strong central government. Provincial conflicts ended when Caesar defeated Pompey. However, to achieve the other two goals, he needed to increase his own power.

Caesar was the first Roman leader to be declared dictator for life. Throughout his reign, he assumed several magistrate positions, which also greatened his influence. One such position was the Prefect of Morals, which gave him censorial powers. He was also given permanent tribunal powers that allowed him to veto the senate and dominate the Plebeian Consul. He further increased his control over the senate by appointing his supporters and requiring the senate to grant him several titles.

Additionally, he increased the number of magistrates elected each year, allowing him to place more key players into the senate. He also established the original consulship by resigning as consul and directing the election of two successors. Caesar was assassinated before all of his constitutional reforms could be implemented.