Emperor Augustus 63 B.C. – 14 A.D.

Family Background He was born Gaius Octavius on September 23, 63 B.C. He was born Gaius Octavius on September 23, 63 B.C. He was the great nephew of Julius Caesar. He was the great nephew of Julius Caesar.

Obtaining Power  Octavian obtained power in a similar way his great uncle did using his brilliant political power to take power in the Senate.  In 27 B.C., the Roman Senate granted Octavian the name “Augustus”, meaning "the exalted." They also gave him the legal power to rule Rome's religious, civil and military affairs, with the Senate as an advisory body, effectively making him Emperor.

Augustus’s Reign  Augustus ruled from 27 B.C. when he was declared emperor until his death in 14 A.D.

Architecture Built: Extended the highway system connecting Rome with its extended empire. He also built bridges, aqueducts and buildings covered with classical art.

Social and Domestic Programs He restored peace after 100 years of civil war while also maintaining an honest government and a sound currency system. He restored peace after 100 years of civil war while also maintaining an honest government and a sound currency system. Augustus also developed an efficient postal service, fostered free trade among the provinces, and under his reign many new authors found success. Augustus also developed an efficient postal service, fostered free trade among the provinces, and under his reign many new authors found success.

Military Campaigns Under Augustus’s rule he conquered parts of Spain, Gaul, Panonia and Dalmatia (now parts of Hungary and Croatia). He also ended a 100 year civil war. Roman territory was gained under his power because he conquered remaining parts of Spain and Gaul and also subdued revolts within these countries.

Augustus loses power  On August 19, 14 A.D., Augustus died and Postumus Agrippa and Tiberius had been named co-heirs.

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