When was Augustus born and what was his birth name?
Augustus was born on the 23rd of September 63 BC as Gaius Octavius. He was born into a family of moderate wealth and was the grandson of Julius Caesar through his mother Atia.
Common questions about Augustus
Short answers, pulled from the story.
How did Augustus become the heir to Julius Caesar?
Augustus became the heir to Julius Caesar after the dictator was assassinated on the 15th of March 44 BC. Julius Caesar named Octavius as the primary heir in his will, allowing Octavius to adopt the name Gaius Julius Caesar.
When did Augustus receive the title of Augustus and what powers did it grant him?
Augustus received the title of Augustus in 27 BC when the Senate granted him the power to oversee provinces holding the majority of Rome's legions. This title marked the beginning of the Principate system where he maintained absolute power while preserving the facade of a republic.
What was the outcome of the Battle of Actium for Augustus?
The Battle of Actium on the 2nd of September 31 BC resulted in the defeat of Mark Antony and Cleopatra by the forces of Marcus Agrippa. This victory allowed Augustus to become the undisputed master of the Roman world and ended the Hellenistic period.
When did Augustus die and who succeeded him as emperor?
Augustus died in AD 14 at the age of 75 and was posthumously deified by the Senate. He was succeeded by his stepson and adoptive son Tiberius.