Who is recognized as the first writer of Latin satire?

The first writer of Latin satire is recognized to be Cato the Elder. Cato was a Roman statesman and writer who lived in the 2nd century BCE and is known for his work "Origines," which contained satirical elements. His contributions laid the groundwork for future satirical literature in Latin by employing humor and social critique within his writings.

Ennius, although a significant figure in early Roman literature and known for his epic poetry, is not primarily associated with the genre of satire. Similarly, Pacuvius was a tragic playwright and poet, while Valerius Flaccus is known for his epic poem "Argonautica." None of these figures made their mark in satire in the way Cato did, making him the pivotal figure in the development of this literary form in Latin literature.