CLA231 Octavianus -> Augustus

Caesar’s Assassins

No action against them (keep public support). Brutus & Cassius

Lepidus

Consul alongside Mark Antony in 44bce (Caesar death). Antony appoints him pontifex maximus

Caesar’s Will

To be publicly read, Antony hoped to be named as heir. Gave money to Roman citizens, new star appeared (Caesar as a god), built temple of Divine Julius.

Octavianus

Caesar’s adopted nephew, named heir. Returned to Rome from Macedonia, spoke at Caesar’s funeral, played it carefully.

City of Mutina

Antony beseiges city in Gaul, Cicero sees Antony as new Caesar and condemns him in 14 Philippics speeches, Octavianus fights Mark Antony.

Aftermath of Mutina

Antony retreats. Octavianus asks the senate for consulship - is refused. Marches on Rome, made consul and reconciles with Antony.

Second Triumvirate

Octavianus, Mark Antony, Lepidus. To restore the state. Divided territories between them, outlawed Caesar’s assassins, proscription lists (over 300 senators, Cicero beheaded), Julius Caesar deified (not in line with restoration of Republic).

Battle of Philippi

42bce, defeat of Cassius and Brutus (Caesar’s assassins). Lepidus remains in Italy.

Perusine War

Problem after Philippi, Octavianus needed land to recompensate his veterans, creates discontent among Italians (land taken from them). Octavianus victory vs Lucius Antonius in Perugia (Mark Antony’s brother). Lepidus excluded from power.

Antony v Octavianus

Octavianus starts propaganda against Antony ‘becoming eastern’ - he stays in East, children with Cleopatra. Antony’s will is stolen by Octavianus, leaves possessions with children of his and Cleopatra, recognises Caesarion as heir (son of Cleopatra and Caesar - Octavian’s brother through adoption), wants to be buried in Alexandria.

War on Cleopatra

Octavianus declared Antony enemy of the state. War on Cleopatra to prevent Romans picking sides and civil war.

Battle of Actium

31bce, Mark Antony and Cleopatra committed suicide, Octavian in complete control.

Octavianus proceeds

27bce, relinquishes his extraordinary powers, accepts 10 year command of unrestful provinces. Declares himself as first among equals, senate proclaims him Augustus. Beautifies Rome, Ara Paxis (altar of peace), divi even before death.