OTTAVIANO AUGUSTO || Il principato augusteo — Storia romana

Summary

This video script provides an in-depth exploration of Augustus, the first Roman Emperor. Born as Gaius Octavius, Augustus rose to power following Julius Caesar's assassination and played a key role in establishing the Roman Empire. His leadership, military victories, and political alliances reshaped Rome, and he enacted significant reforms that solidified his control. Augustus cleverly balanced power between the Senate, military, and people, employing propaganda and strategic alliances to maintain stability. His reign, marked by military expansion, peace (Pax Romana), and cultural flourishing, laid the foundation for the Roman Empire's golden age.

Takeaways

• 😀 Augustus, born Gaius Octavius in 63 BC, was adopted by Julius Caesar and eventually became the first Roman emperor.
• 😀 After Caesar's assassination in 44 BC, Octavian returned to Rome and quickly entered the political scene, securing his position as a key player in Roman politics.
• 😀 Augustus was physically weak and often ill, leading some, including Mark Antony, to initially underestimate his potential as a leader.
• 😀 The formation of the Second Triumvirate in 43 BC between Octavian, Mark Antony, and Lepidus helped to consolidate power and defeat Caesar's assassins.
• 😀 In 42 BC, the Battle of Philippi saw Octavian and Antony defeat Brutus and Cassius, leading to the elimination of Caesar's assassins.
• 😀 The rivalry between Octavian and Mark Antony escalated when Antony became involved with Cleopatra, which Octavian used to accuse him of trying to create a monarchy.
• 😀 The final showdown between Octavian and Mark Antony occurred in 31 BC at the Battle of Actium, where Octavian emerged victorious.
• 😀 After defeating Antony and Cleopatra, Augustus became the undisputed ruler of Rome and officially restored the Roman Republic in 27 BC, though he retained full control.
• 😀 Augustus was granted the title 'Augustus' by the Senate, symbolizing his divine status and his role in expanding and preserving the empire.
• 😀 Augustus implemented numerous reforms, including reorganizing the provinces and increasing bureaucratic control, which contributed to the stability and expansion of the empire.
• 😀 Augustus's reign marked the beginning of the Pax Romana, a period of relative peace and prosperity in the Roman Empire, aided by his strategic propaganda and support of the arts.

Q & A

What was the original name of Augustus and who were his parents?

Augustus was originally named Gaius Octavius. His father was a senator, and his mother was the granddaughter of Julius Caesar.

How did Augustus become involved in politics after Julius Caesar's assassination?

After Julius Caesar's assassination in 44 BC, Augustus, who was in Greece at the time, became a key political figure when Caesar adopted him in his will, naming him as an heir.

What was the significance of the battle of Philippi in 42 BC?

The battle of Philippi in 42 BC was a significant victory for Augustus and Mark Antony. They defeated the forces of Brutus and Cassius, the leaders of the conspiracy to assassinate Caesar.

What was the Second Triumvirate, and who were its members?

The Second Triumvirate, established in 43 BC, consisted of Augustus, Mark Antony, and Lepidus. They shared control over the Roman Empire, dividing it into areas of influence.

Why did Augustus and Mark Antony eventually become rivals?

Augustus and Mark Antony became rivals because of personal and political conflicts, especially after Antony's relationship with Cleopatra and his shift toward the Eastern monarchies, which Augustus saw as a threat to Roman values and power.

What was the outcome of the Battle of Actium in 31 BC?

The Battle of Actium, fought on September 2, 31 BC, resulted in a decisive victory for Augustus over Mark Antony and Cleopatra. After their defeat, both Antony and Cleopatra committed suicide, leaving Augustus as the sole ruler of Rome.

How did Augustus present himself after becoming the ruler of Rome?

After defeating his rivals, Augustus presented himself as the 'restorer of the Republic' in 27 BC. He returned certain powers to the Senate while maintaining control over Rome, a propaganda move to gain Senate favor.

What does the title 'Augustus' mean, and how did it relate to his rule?

The title 'Augustus' means 'the consecrated' or 'the revered one'. It reflects Augustus' role in increasing Rome’s wealth and power. The title also symbolizes his connection to the divine will and his authority over the Empire.

What were the key reforms Augustus introduced to consolidate his power?

Augustus implemented several reforms, including reducing the power of consuls by making their terms shorter, reorganizing the provinces into senator-controlled and imperial provinces, and strengthening his position through military control and propaganda.

What is the 'Pax Romana' and how did it relate to Augustus' reign?

The 'Pax Romana' or 'Roman Peace' refers to the period of stability and peace throughout the Roman Empire, largely attributed to Augustus' leadership. He maintained order through military strength, political agreements, and popular welfare measures like 'bread and circuses'.