Patriotism seems to be a large motivator. In reading #30, The Gallic War, no other mechanism causes people to do things quite as much as the love of one's country. Caesar is moved to earn himself a place in "Rome's hall of fame" His ambition is partially selfish, but mostly rooted in the need to serve Rome and better the country. How noble! Patriotism causes the crowds to welcome Caesar into Rome and await his appointment to Ruler for life with much joy. Patriotism caused Caesar to conquer Gaul and Germany. Caesar knew that these wins would bring Rome more food and, in turn, cause his popularity to increase. While Patriotism can bring able rulers to office, cause boundaries to be expanded, and provide for service of the state, it can also be deadly if people are armed with it.

Patriotism, the instrument of Caesar's rise, is the weapon of his death. Cassius, being jealous of Caesar creates a conflict so that prominent citizens in town will see Caesar as a menace and choose to kill him for the good of Rome. Cassius uses Brutus' love for Rome to get him involved in the plot to assassinate Caesar. Brutus believes that killing Caesar is the thing to do for Rome because Caesar would be presented with the opportunity to abuse his power. Brutus stabs Caesar for his country: "not that I loved Caesar less, but that I loved Rome more." Brutus continues to say that "With this I depart, that, as I slew my best lover for the good of Rome, I have the same dagger for myself, when it shall please my country to need my death.