Lucius Passienus Rufus was a new man of some oratorical talent, consul in 4 BC and proconsul of Africa. The heir, who was a wit and an orator, rose high: consul under the reign of Augustus. He inherited the name, the wealth, and the influence of Sallustius who was his Uncle. He is also the father of Gaius Sallustius Crispus Passienus who married Augustus' granddaughter Agrippina the Younger.