TRIUMPH. The procession of a victorious Rom. general to the Capitoline Hill to offer sacrifice to Jupiter.

The honor of a triumph could be granted only by the Rom. senate, and in accordance with strict rules, among which was one that the victory had to be against foreigners, not in a civil war. Under the Republic proconsuls and propraetors celebrated triumphs; during the empire the honor became the prerogative of the emperor.

The procession was elaborate: the magistrates led off, followed by the senate, trumpeters, spoils captured from the enemy, the white oxen for sacrifice, the principal captives in chains, the lictors, the victorious general himself in a four horse chariot, and finally his army. The general wore the dress of a king, including scepter and crown. When he reached the Capitol, he placed a laurel wreath on the lap of the god. Many triumphs lasted more than one day. The triumphator was privileged to appear in special dress at public gatherings, and his name was inscribed on the list of persons so honored.