Was it just propaganda or myth, or did Julius Caesar actually engage in combat while on Campaign? After he became emperor? Because it seems like the risk would far outweigh the benefit. I’m sure he was a strong and skilled soldier because of his vast experience, but all it would have taken was a lucky arrow shot or sword strike, and the leader of the biggest superpower would have been erased. His intelligence, charisma, and strategic/management skill would have been far more valuable than his combat skill.

But on the other hand, him engaging in combat would have been a big morale boost for his army, significantly increasing their chances of victory. And i’m sure he would have relished the glory.

This question can also apply to others like Ghenkis Khan, Napoleon, and Hannibal, and any “warrior king” at their peak of political power. Common sense would be for them to stay in the back, or be insulated by a core of elite soldiers, once they became heads of state.