Augustus: The First Roman Emperor in 5 Fascinating Facts
Augustus, the First Roman Emperor in 5 Fascinating Facts
Rome has a rich and complex history, but one figure stands out as pivotal in the transformation of the city from a republic to an empire. Augustus, born Gaius Octavius, is this figure. Here are five lesser-known facts about the most famous Roman Emperor, Augustus.
1. Augustus' Great-Uncle and Adopted Father Was Julius Caesar
After Julius Caesar's death, Octavian (later known as Augustus) became his adopted son and heir. Born in 63 BCE, Gaius Octavius was initially known for his sickly constitution and spent much of his early life away from his famous relative. However, upon Caesar’s return from a campaign, he met and was adopted at the age of 17. This act of adoption marked a turning point in Octavius's life and set the stage for his future.
2. Octavian to Augustus: The Polishing of Power
Upon becoming Augustus, Octavian did not immediately show off his newfound power. He cleverly avoided showing off his authority and was careful not to portray himself as a king. By maintaining a facade of non-monarchical rule, Augustus played to the Roman aversion against absolutist rule. As the first Roman emperor, Augustus carefully crafted a public image that distinguished him from his predecessors.
3. Two Friends, Building an Empire
Despite his political savvy, Augustus was not alone in his endeavors. His close friend Marcus Agrippa played a crucial role in building the Roman Empire. Agrippa was a military and political genius, and his loyalty to Augustus was unwavering. Agrippa's contributions were vast, including supporting the army in battles, winning crucial victories, and even persuading the Senate to grant Augustus the imperial title. Agrippa's efforts in the imperial building program also transformed Rome into a city of marble, marking a new era of prosperity and stability.
4. Julia, Troublemaker and Daughter of the Emperor
Augustus's only biological child, Julia, was a complex figure. Born to his second wife, she was removed from her mother and placed with Livia, Augustus's third wife. Julia's social life was strictly controlled, but she maintained a close relationship with her father. Although controversial, Julia's situation was a strategic move to secure a legitimate heir and strengthen alliances. However, her scandalous affairs tarnished her reputation and landed her in exile, reflecting the strict moral codes of the time.
5. A Serious Heir Problem
Like Julius Caesar, Augustus had no son of his own. This presented a significant challenge, as the Roman society valued male heirs above all. Augustus spent considerable time and energy seeking a successor. Despite the birth of potential heirs through Agrippa, these boys passed away prematurely. This left Augustus with no choice but to name his stepson Tiberius as his heir, a decision that would mark the beginning of a new dynasty.
Augustus's life and reign were marked by a blend of political acumen, military prowess, and strategic alliances. His efforts to transform Rome into a prosperous and stable empire laid the foundation for the Roman Empire as we know it. His legacy is a testament to his multifaceted leadership and the enduring impact of his reign on Roman history.
By Vedran Bileta
MA in Late Antique Byzantine and Early Modern History
BA in History