Julius Caesar was assassinated because he was secretly plotting to overthrow the Roman Republic and declare himself emperor of Rome. Which of the following, if true, would be a strong counterclaim to the historian's assertion?
a) Caesar had recently proposed significant political reforms aimed at strengthening the Roman Republic.
b) Several prominent senators who opposed Caesar's assassination were found to be actively involved in a conspiracy against him.
c) Caesar's close associates publicly supported his intention to establish a monarchy in Rome.
d) Historical records indicate that Caesar's assassination was a spontaneous act driven by personal grievances rather than a premeditated conspiracy.