The Beginning of the Roman Empire

1. The Beginning of the Roman Empire

2. Second Triumvirate • Marc Antony- Caesar’s right hand man • Octavius Caesar- 18 year old son/ grandnephew • Lepidus- Caesar’s Calvary Commander Antony Lepidus Octavius

3. First step: Kill Caesar’s enemies. • Cassius/ Brutus- declared enemies of the state and both commit suicide in 42 bce after losing decisive battle • Cicero- famous orator- spoke against Caesar and Antony. Decapitated- head and hands displayed for all to see in Forum. Also pins placed through his tongue

4. After enemies are destroyed, they turn on each other • Octavian- inherits Caesar’s name and money. Also, because Julius Caesar deified after his death, he can claim he is a god. Only 18 years old VS

5. Antony- takes the East and resides in Egypt. He takes Cleopatra as a lover- despite the fact that he is married to Octavius’ sister who is pregnant. He has 3 children with Cleopatra. He then tries to claim that Cleopatra’s son with Julius Caesar is legitimate heir to throne.

6. Octavian- takes the West, including Rome. • Is threatened by Antony’s claim over legitimate heir. Responds by reading Antony’s will to Senate (gives much land to Egypt and wants his body buried in Alexandria). • Claims Antony has “gone native”.

7. Rome answers by declaring war on Egypt, and by extension Antony. • Naval battle off coast of Actium. Cleopatra runs with navy and Antony follows. Perceived as Roman victory. Both of them commit suicide. • Octavian also murders Julius Caesar’s son to solidify legitimacy.

8. Octavian keeps Republic positions and is elected pro consul (only one) • Senate keeps bestowing honours/ titles on him including Augustus • Over time, Augustus takes sole power and becomes emperor. Not by force, by consent of SPQR

9. Augustus begins the Pax Romana (Roman peace) that lasts essentially from 25 bce to 180 ce.