Who Was Augustus?

The Rise of Augustus

• Introduction to Imperator Caesar DV Phyllis Augustus Potter, known as Augustus, a pivotal figure in history.

• Born Gaius Octavius in 63 BCE, he belonged to a noble yet impoverished family in Rome.

• Adopted by his granduncle Julius Caesar, Octavian aimed to inherit Caesar's legacy after his assassination.

Power Struggles and Alliances

• Upon returning to Rome post-Caesar's death, Octavian faced Mark Antony's tyranny and public support for him.

• With the Senate’s backing, Octavian gained extraordinary powers and military control over Rome’s armies.

• After defeating Antony in Gaul, Octavian returned to find the Senate wary of granting him further power.

Formation of the Second Triumvirate

• Realizing the Senate's intentions, Octavian allied with Antony and Lepidus to form the Second Triumvirate.

• The trio eliminated political rivals through prescriptions, consolidating their wealth and power.

Battles for Control

• In 42 BCE, they defeated Caesar’s assassins at the Battle of Philippi; Brutus committed suicide afterward.

• By 36 BCE, internal conflicts arose within the triumvirate leading to Lepidus' exile.

Conflict Between Octavian and Antony

• Tensions escalated between Octavian and Antony as ambitions clashed over control of Eastern territories.

• The naval battle at Actium in 31 BCE resulted in a decisive victory for Octavian against Antony and Cleopatra.

Establishing Authority as Emperor

• Following his victories, Octavian adopted the title Imperator but redefined its meaning beyond military success.

• He maintained an illusion of republican governance while holding significant power without declaring himself dictator or consul for life.

Augustus: The Rise of a Roman Leader

The Significance of the Title "Augustus"

• Augustus, meaning dignified and worthy of honor in Latin, understood that titles alone could not secure his power if he lost public support.

• To bolster his legitimacy, Augustus enacted laws aimed at restoring ancient Roman morality and customs, despite contradicting those very principles through his authority.

Propaganda and Cultural Influence

• Augustus initiated an aggressive propaganda campaign led by his advisor Maecenas, who recruited poets to promote the Emperor's image.

• Notably, Virgil was brought on board to write the Aeneid, which served to intertwine Augustus’s legacy with Roman history.

Urban Transformation and Public Works

• Augustus significantly transformed Rome through extensive public works and monuments; upon his death, he famously stated he found Rome a city of brick and left it clothed in marble.

Titles Reflecting Power and Legacy

• By 2 BCE, Augustus was honored with the title "Pater Patriae" (Father of the Nation), reflecting his deep connection with the Roman people.

• He adopted various titles throughout his rise—Imperator Caesar Divi Filius (son of a god)—and maintained an illusion of republicanism while wielding absolute power.

Conclusion: The Synonymy with Empire