I had a lot of fun on my web site when I was writing Sulla's bio, because in writing it I realized the almost Twilight-Zone similarities (in some ways) between Sulla and Caesar. And I think it is arguable that, pre-Sulla, the Roman Republic might have survived, but post-Sulla, it was set on a path from which all which followed HAD to come.

Here's the quote. I dislike Sulla heartily, and I do care about Caesar, but I can't help but shudder at aspects of their lives . . .

A famous Roman general stood poised to take the unprecedented step of marching on Rome with his legions, to purge the Senate of his political enemies and to ensure the downfall of a rival general, once more famous, now vying for command of the Roman armies. Of an old but decayed patrician family, he was famous for his conquest of foreign kings and his unrivaled luck in battle. He was ruthless, brilliant, alternately merciful and pitiless to his enemies. The younger general's actions sent shock-waves to the very foundations of the enfeebled Republic and led to his seizing the dictatorship of Rome; however, he would not step aside from the office in the traditional six months, but proceeded to force through legislation to recreate Rome in his own image. His name would become a byword for those who helped destroy the Roman Republic in its final years.