Saturday, February 9, 2008

Augustus Caesar

Rome was of the greatest nations at its peak in the ancient world. The Roman people were conquerors as well as diplomats; this diversity allowed them to be the greatest nation for a period in the ancient world. Rome’s government had its course of change: going from kingship to republic to empire, and during each of these periods progressing and learning to develop a more ideal government. The main period of progression was the time of the Roman Republic, in which many divisions of government were established, in attempt to halt the rise of s higher power, whether in an individual a group within the government. (Source)

Although Rome was definitively great as a whole, comprising the infrastructure were great leaders, many well known among most, however, it’s not well known why they are in fact well known. Some of the most renowned rulers comprised in the imperialistic era of Rome were Julius Caesar and Augustus Caesar. I will be addressing the reign of Augustus Caesar, how he came into power in the first place, what he accomplished during his rule, and why his reign was so important. (Source)

Originally named Gaius Octavius, or Octavian, Augustus was born into a wealthy family southeast of Rome. Augustus was the great nephew of Julius Caesar, who later adopted him to be his heir. When Julius Caesar was assassinated Octavian took the name of Julius Caesar, becoming Julius Caesar Octavianus, which later became Caesar Augustus when he was appointed emperor, or imperator. As Augustus involved in the government of Rome he joined with his adopted father’s friend, Antony, and Lepidus. The three formed the Second Triumvirate, which immediately divided provinces for each of the three men to rule. The triumvirate fell, ending because of conflict with Antony and Augustus, with Augustus coming out on top and Antony committing suicide. (Source 1, Source 2)