Augustus: Rise to Rome’s First Emperor

Augustus’s rise to become Rome’s first emperor is the focus of this documentary. The story follows the emergence of imperial power and considers how the man who became Augustus helped define a new era in Roman history.

Historical background

Augustus emerged from the civil wars that followed Julius Caesar’s assassination. Born Octavian, he defeated rivals including Mark Antony and developed the political settlement now called the Principate. Republican offices continued, but authority became concentrated around the emperor. His reign is important for understanding how military command, patronage, religion, and public imagery helped make a new political order appear connected to Roman tradition.

Related history

• Hannibal: Rome’s Formidable Foe
• Boudicca’s Revolt Against Roman Rule