Augustus Caesar
63 BCE – 14 CE (77 years)
Founded the Roman Principate and became the first Roman Emperor. He initiated the Pax Romana, a 200-year period of peace and stability in the Mediterranean world.
Biography
Augustus (born Gaius Octavius) was adopted by his great-uncle Julius Caesar. After Caesar's assassination, Octavius formed the Second Triumvirate, defeated Caesar's assassins, and later defeated Mark Antony at the Battle of Actium to consolidate absolute control.
Key Events
44 BCE
Adopted by Julius Caesar in his will
43 BCE
Formed Second Triumvirate with Antony and Lepidus
31 BCE
Defeated Antony and Cleopatra at Actium
27 BCE
Renamed Augustus; established Roman Empire
9 CE
Battle of Teutoburg Forest — loss of three legions