Who was the first consul of ancient Rome?

The first consul of ancient Rome was actually Lucius Junius Brutus, who played a crucial role in the establishment of the Roman Republic after the overthrow of the last king, Tarquin the Proud, in 509 BCE. Brutus is celebrated as a founding figure of the Republic, and his election as consul marked the beginning of the Roman system of elected magistrates, which set the stage for the governance structure of Rome.

Brutus and his fellow consul, Lucretius Tricipitinus, held significant power and responsibility, which included leading the army and overseeing the government. The role of consul was central to the political life of Rome, and Brutus's election was monumental in transitioning from monarchy to a republican form of governance.

The other figures mentioned, such as Julius Caesar, Cincinnatus, and Pompey, were significant leaders in Roman history but came well after the establishment of the Republic. Their contributions were important, but they were not the first to hold the office of consul.