What is the meaning of the name ‘Caligula’?

‘Caligula’ was a nickname given to the third Roman emperor Gaius Caesar Augustus Germanicus, meaning ‘Little Boots’ or ‘Booties’. Born on 31st August 12 AD, Gaius is known as one of the cruelest rulers of the Roman Empire.

As a boy of just two or three, Gaius accompanied his father, Germanicus, a popular Roman general, on campaigns in the north of Germania. The soldiers were amused that Gaius was dressed in a miniature soldier's outfit, including boots and armour. That’s how he was given the affectionate nickname, ‘Caligula’ after the small ‘caligae’ (soldier’s boots) he wore. Gaius, though, as anyone would do, grew to dislike this nickname.

On 24th January, 41 AD Caligula was stabbed to death by officers of the Praetorian Guard led by Cassius Chaerea. His wife and one-year-old daughter were also killed during the same day.