Augustus

63 BC — 14 AD

Augustus originally known as Gaius Octavius, later renamed Gaius Julius Caesar Octavianus, was the founder of the Roman Empire and its first emperor. He was the adopted son and heir of Julius Caesar, inheriting his wealth, name, and political influence.

After Caesar's assassination in 44 BC, Augustus emerged as the principal figure in Rome's power struggle. He defeated Mark Antony and Cleopatra in the Battle of Actium in 31 BC, solidifying his control over Rome.

Augustus ruled as emperor from 27 BC until his death in 14 AD, during a period known as the Pax Romana. He implemented numerous reforms, including administrative, military, and social changes, which stabilized the Roman state after years of civil war.

Augustus' reign marked the transition from the Roman Republic to the Roman Empire, shaping the course of Western civilization for centuries.