Who was Octavian?

Octavian, later known as Augustus, was the first Emperor of Rome and the heir of Julius Caesar. After Caesar’s assassination in 44 B.C., he formed the Second Triumvirate with Mark Antony and Lepidus, defeating Caesar’s killers at the Battle of Philippi. Eventually, Octavian turned on Antony, winning the Battle of Actium in 31 B.C., which led to Antony and Cleopatra’s downfall. In 27 B.C., he was granted the title Augustus by the Senate, marking the end of the Roman Republic and the beginning of the Roman Empire. His rule brought the Pax Romana, a long period of peace and stability, making him one of the most influential leaders in history. 

At the start of his rule, Augustus reformed the Roman government, keeping the illusion of a new Republic while secretly holding absolute power in Rome. He initiated reforms to stabilize the empire, including taxation, infrastructure projects, and a standing army, while also expanding Roman territory, furthering Roman influence on the world. During the Pax Romana, Octavian restructured the Roman military by establishing a professional standing army and the Praetorian Guards to protect the emperor, ensuring stability and security. He also restructured the taxation system, creating a more efficient and fair method of collecting money, which helped fund public works such as roads, aqueducts, and temples. 

Additionally, Augustus encouraged trade and economic growth, established a postal system, and promoted Roman culture, law, and governance throughout the provinces, laying the foundation for the empire’s long-term success. Toward the end of his rule, Augustus carefully managed his succession, ultimately naming his stepson Tiberius as his heir to ensure a smooth transition of power. He spent his later years overseeing the empire’s stability, but his health declined, and in 14 A.D., he died at age 75 in the town of Nola. After his death, the Senate proclaimed him as "Divus Augustus" (the divine Augustus), cementing his legacy as Rome’s first and one of its greatest emperors.