Augustus: A Detailed Biography

Augustus (63 BCE – 14 CE), born Gaius Octavius, was the founder of the Roman Empire and its first emperor. By ending a century of civil war and establishing the 200-year Pax Romana, he transformed Rome from republic to enduring imperial power while maintaining the illusion of republican rule. This biography traces his rise as Caesar’s heir, victory over Antony and Cleopatra, creation of the Principate, and lasting legacy, as documented by the Encyclopaedia Britannica and the Livius.org.

Early Life and Caesar’s Heir

Birth in Rome

Born on September 23, 63 BCE in Rome to a wealthy but not senatorial family, young Octavius was a great-nephew of Julius Caesar. Caesar, childless, took a strong interest in him and in 45 BCE named the 18-year-old his principal heir, as documented by the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Rise to Power: Second Triumvirate

From Octavian to Caesar

When Caesar was assassinated in 44 BCE, Octavian rushed to Rome, adopted the name Gaius Julius Caesar Octavianus, and formed the Second Triumvirate with Mark Antony and Lepidus. The proscriptions that followed killed thousands, including Cicero.

Victory at Actium and Sole Rule

Battle of Actium (31 BCE)

The rivalry with Antony and Cleopatra culminated in the naval battle of Actium on September 2, 31 BCE. Octavian’s admiral Agrippa crushed their fleet; Antony and Cleopatra fled to Egypt and committed suicide the next year, as recorded by the Smithsonian Magazine.

Princeps and the Augustan Settlement

“Restorer of the Republic” (27 BCE)

In January 27 BCE the Senate granted Octavian the honorific title “Augustus” and extraordinary powers while pretending to restore the Republic. He ruled as princeps (first citizen) for 41 years, creating the Principate — the model for all future emperors.

Reforms and the Pax Romana

Administration, Army, and Building

Augustus reorganised the provinces, created a standing professional army, established the Praetorian Guard, and rebuilt Rome: “I found Rome a city of bricks and left it a city of marble.” The Forum of Augustus, Ara Pacis, and Pantheon (later rebuilt) date from his reign, as preserved by the National Geographic.

Family and Succession

Married three times, his only child was Julia (by Scribonia). He married Livia Drusilla in 38 BCE; though they had no children together, her son Tiberius became heir after the deaths of Augustus’ grandsons Gaius and Lucius.

Death and Legacy

Augustus’ Enduring Impact

Augustus died on August 19, 14 CE in Nola at age 75. His last words were reportedly: “Have I played the part well? Then applaud as I exit.” Deified after death, he inaugurated the Pax Romana — two centuries of relative peace and prosperity. The month of August is named after him, and his system of government lasted (in the West until 476 CE, in the East until 1453), as noted by the British Library.

Frequently Asked Questions About Augustus

Why Is Augustus Famous?

For ending Rome’s civil wars and founding the Roman Empire and Pax Romana.

Was Augustus the First Roman Emperor?

Yes — though he styled himself princeps, not emperor.

Where Was Augustus Born?

Rome, September 23, 63 BCE.

What Is the Pax Romana?

The 200-year period of peace and prosperity that began under Augustus.

Who Was Augustus’ Wife?

Livia Drusilla — married 38 BCE; mother of Emperor Tiberius.

What Happened at the Battle of Actium?

Octavian defeated Antony and Cleopatra in 31 BCE, becoming sole ruler.

How Did Augustus Die?

Natural causes on August 19, 14 CE at age 75, saying “I found Rome brick, left it marble.”