As a son of a war hero, young Gaius spent most of his childhood accompanying his father on military campaigns. The boy soon became a favorite of Germanicus’ legionaries. They dressed the future emperor in the little soldier’s outfit, including miniature boots – caligae. Thus, Gaius became known as Caligula – “little boot.” However, although Caligula had a keen interest in military affairs, he was uncomfortable with the moniker, and after assuming the throne, he insisted on the given name he shared with a famous ancestor – Gaius Julius Caesar.
As a son of a war hero, young Gaius spent most of his childhood accompanying his father on military campaigns. The boy soon became a favorite of Germanicus’ legionaries. They dressed the future emperor in the little soldier’s outfit, including miniature boots – caligae. Thus, Gaius became known as Caligula – “little boot.” However, although Caligula had a keen interest in military affairs, he was uncomfortable with the moniker, and after assuming the throne, he insisted on the given name he shared with a famous ancestor – Gaius Julius Caesar.