The Roman Revolution : The Time Of Roman Disintegration Essay

To understand Augustus Caesar, it is important to have a glimpse of the “Roman Revolution,” the time of Roman disintegration. During their time, the Roman Republic was not functioning efficiently. Violent and intimidation dominated the government. Powerful generals of politicized armies forced the state for greater power for themselves. These generals used their power to extract money from the locals to fund their political ambitions. Julius Caesar had the support of his army and popularity from the common people became virtually a dictator in Rome. Though he accomplished many reforms, he was strongly opposed by the Senate and in 44 BC he was assassinated by conspirators among them. When Caesar’s will was read, Augustus as an adopted son named his as his chief heir. At this juncture, Augusts entered the Roman’s political arena. Augusts was born on September 24, 63 BC, as Gaius Octavius Thurinus in Rome, nicknamed Octavius. His father was Gaius Octavius, a governor and a senator in the Roman Republic and gained a fine reputation. His mother was Atia, the daughter of Julia, Julius Caesar’s sister, who had the most distinguished connection. His father died when he was only four years old, thus young Octavius was adopted by his uncle Julius Caesar. This family link between Julius Caesar and young Octavius played a determinative role in shaping the rest of Octavius’s life. His grandmother Julia greatly influenced his life, delivered the eulogy at her funeral, which was his…