Gaius Rabirius Postumus

Who is Gaius Rabirius Postumus?

Gaius Rabirius Postumus, defended by Cicero in the extant speech Pro Rabirio Postumo, when charged with extortion in Egypt and complicity with Aulus Gabinius. Rabirius was a member of the equites order who lent a very large sum of money to Ptolemy Auletes, king of Egypt. Afterwards, Ptolemy XII refused to repay the money and had Rabirius imprisoned. When Auletes threatened Rabirius' life, the latter escaped to Rome, where he was accused by the Senate of Rome. He was defended by Cicero and acquitted.