Marcus Porcius Cato, commonly known as Cato the Elder, was a Roman statesman and military leader born in 234 BCE. He is best known for his strong advocacy of traditional Roman values and his opposition to the influence of Hellenistic culture in Rome. Cato served as a senator and held the position of consul in 195 BCE. Cato was also a prolific writer, with his most famous work being De Agri Cultura, a treatise on agriculture. He is remembered for his famous phrase "Carthago delenda est," meaning "Carthage must be destroyed," reflecting his fierce rivalry with Carthage. Cato's legacy continues to influence discussions on Roman history and politics.