Augustus

Date of Birth: September 23, 63 BC

Zodiac Sign: Unknown

Date of Death: August 19, AD 14

Biography

Augustus, born Gaius Octavius Thurinus, was the founder and the first Emperor of the Roman Empire, ruling from 27 BC until his death in AD 14. Born into an old and wealthy family, Augustus was adopted by his great-uncle Julius Caesar in 44 BC, which set him on the path to power. Following Caesar’s assassination, Augustus formed the Second Triumvirate with Mark Antony and Marcus Lepidus to defeat the assassins of Caesar. Eventually, the triumvirate dissolved in conflict, and Augustus emerged as the sole ruler of Rome after his victory over Antony and Cleopatra at the Battle of Actium in 31 BC. He then initiated an era known as the Pax Romana, a period of relative peace and stability across the empire that lasted for more than two centuries. Augustus is often credited with laying the foundation for the Roman Empire’s enduring legacy.

5 Interesting Facts about Augustus

1. Augustus was originally named Gaius Octavius Thurinus and was later adopted by Julius Caesar, becoming Gaius Julius Caesar Octavianus.

2. He established the Praetorian Guard, a special force of bodyguards used by Roman emperors.

3. Augustus was responsible for significant building projects in Rome, often claiming he “found Rome a city of bricks and left it a city of marble.”

4. He was given the title “Augustus” by the Roman Senate, meaning “the revered one,” in 27 BC.

5. Augustus was deified by the Roman Senate after his death, making him one of the few Roman emperors to be officially recognized as a god.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Augustus

1. “I found Rome a city of bricks and left it a city of marble.”

2. “Make haste slowly.”

3. “Practice, the master of all things.”

4. “Young men, hear an old man to whom old men hearkened when he was young.”

5. “I am a coward if I do not defend my friends.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the height of his power, Augustus’s net worth is estimated to have been around $4.6 trillion in today’s money, making him one of the richest individuals in history.

Children

Augustus had one biological daughter, Julia the Elder, with his second wife, Scribonia. He also adopted several children, including Gaius Caesar, Lucius Caesar, and Tiberius, who succeeded him as Emperor.