The Beginning of the Roman Empire Second Triumvirate

The Beginning of the Roman Empire

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

• 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 oratorspoke against Caesar and Antony. Decapitated- head and hands displayed for all to see in Forum. Also pins placed through his tongue

• 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

• 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.

• 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”.

• 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.

• 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

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