The Age of Augustus I

The Importance of Augustus Augustus was the Great Architect of a new political system and of a new era in Roman History, “Age of Empire / Age of Peace” (Pax Romana). He lived from 63 BCE - 14 CE, with 44 years in power (30 BCE - 14 CE).

After Actium: Octavian's Choices The Battle of Actium (31 BCE) was the decisive confrontation of the Final War of the Roman Republic. It was a naval engagement fought between the forces of Octavian and the combined forces of Mark Antony and Cleopatra. Octavian found himself in control of the whole Roman sphere of influence. He could go back to Rome and re-establish the Republic. He could go back and establish himself immediately as dictator. ◦ He needed to maintain stability without offending the dignity of the Romans. ◦ Right after Actium - he held successive consulships

Octavian’s return to Rome BCE Gains power at age 33. He maintains his immense power but within a humble facade. He had a monarchy in all but name, an autocracy within a Republican skin. Restoration of order and confidence o Creation of financial stability o No acceptance of exceptional honours or powers o Use of propaganda to promote new era of peace o Provision of diversions (games/bread and circuses) and employment for the people (building program) o Emphasis on interest in traditional and conservative activities o No vengeance in the form of proscriptions exacted against enemies o Indication that peace was to continue (Temple of Janus opened)

The significance of Augustus’ titles Augustus was granted and held numerous titles: o Imperator (temporary military title) – 43 and 30 BCE o Princeps Senatus – top of the senator list; the first to give his opinion – 28 BCE o Augustus – ‘one to be revered’ – 27 BCE o Princeps Civitatis – ‘first citizen’; authority but not power – 27 BCE o Pontifex Maximus – religious authority – 12 BCE o Pater Patriae – ‘Father of the Country’ – 2 BCE

How did he control power? Power, Authority, Popularity: o Personal influence (auctoritas) o Military power – legions loyal to Augustus o Constitutional arrangements – executive power o Propaganda – writers, Forum and imperial cult o Gained support from the senatorial class, equestrians and the plebians o Worked with republican forms and did not advertise his supremacy

Creation of a standing army, regardless of peace or war There were 60 legions at Actium, these are reduced to 28 with 170,000 soldiers and auxiliaries. The soldiers became loyal to the Princeps. The "Empire" now equated authority with the person, the emperor, Augustus. Compensated veterans – levies a 5% tax on bequests and inheritances

Social and Political significance Put himself in control of armies. Makes military service a viable career path with good retirement. Provincial soldiers gain citizenship when discharged. Promotions were given based on merit. The army became an agent of Romanization in the Empire. Senate: Augustus created a partnership of sharing work and responsibility, but not power.