The First and, Arguably, Best Emperor of Rome Augustus Caesar The First and, Arguably, Best Emperor of Rome

Background Information Julius Caesar is Augustus’s great-uncle. Augustus Caesar was Rome’s first emperor, although he never wanted the role of an emperor. The people of Rome loved him and elected him eleven times. Before Augustus’s rule, Rome was a Republic.

Augustus’s Birth Caesar was born with the name Gaius Octavius on September 23rd, 63 B.C.E., in current Rome, Italy. Julius Caesar took interest in Augustus and adopted him in 44 B.C.E.

Rise to Power Augustus went to Hispania (modern day Spain) to fight with Julius Caesar, which greatly impressed him. Julius named Octavius (Augustus) his successor in his will. Augustus gained power after the death of Julius Caesar. At first, his power was divided between him and Mark Anthony, although, several events led to Anthony’s suicide, making Augustus the only ruler.

Strengths In general, Augustus was a great leader which thought about the future generations and the longevity of the empire. He was great at connecting with his people. He tried to be as democratic as he could by allowing his people control the stable areas of the empire. He had a generous personality, which made people like him on a more personal level. He didn’t try to act like a god, he acted like a normal citizen of the Roman empire.

Weaknesses Augustus was stubborn. He did not want to hold office, but in the end, was forced to. He was unprepared for his battles. If his initial plan failed it didn’t seem like he had a backup plan, causing him to lose several battles. Over his last years, he seemed to have gotten lazy. He had a hard time keeping the empire in balance. For example, he made poor military decisions.

Expansion of Rome As his years as an emperor, Augustus conquered Egypt, Northern Spain, large parts of central Europe, and present day Germany. He also conquered Egypt to prevent Anthony from controlling it.

Established Currency Augustus created a set currency for the Roman empire. The currency had engravings of his face and victories. Establishing a single currency for all of Rome united the empire and created a stable economy.

Brought Rome to Pax Romana Ended civil wars Brought back dignity to the Senate Freed mankind from anxiety Assured property rights of citizens In general, helped sustainability This has brought Rome to the 200 year Pax Romana (Roman Peace) and has allowed the empire to last, in various forms, for almost 1,500 years.

The Fall of Augustus Augustus lived to the age of 75 His rule over Rome lasted 45 years When Augustus stepped down from his position, other emperors would be tested to follow in Augustus’s steps but failed to do so ultimately bringing the Roman Empire to a downfall. The glory that Augustus brought to Rome would come to an end after his rule. In 14 AD, when Augustus died, the power of the Roman Empire would be focused on the imperial palace rather than republican assembly. Essentially, the Fall of Augustus was a turning point for Rome.

Interesting Facts Augustus had a month renamed after him from the name Sextilis to Augustus. During his reign, Jesus Christ was born. Historians described Augustus as being unusually handsome. Rome’s golden age was named after Augustus, “Augustan Age.” Augustus’s full name is Imperator Caesar Divi Filius Augustus