Final answer:
The Roman elite felt threatened by Julius Caesar's growing popularity among the common Roman citizens.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Roman elite felt threatened by the growing popularity of Julius Caesar among the common Roman citizens. Caesar's military victories made him famous and powerful, which in turn ensured the loyalty of his troops. However, the senators in Rome feared Caesar's power and called on Pompey, a former ally of Caesar, to suppress him. The senate recalled Caesar after refusing to renew his governorship and military command, causing tensions between Caesar and the Roman elite.