Known for its powerful leaders and diverse culture, the Roman Empire has carved its name into history. One of the most significant events in Roman history include the Battle of Actium; a battle that decidedly ended Roman Republic and began the foundation of the great Roman Empire. During the Roman Civil War, Julius Caesar’s death in 44 BC sparked the struggle of power between Octavian and Mark Antony. As a result of this struggle, Octavian’s navy forces battled against Mark Antony and Cleopatra VII in 31 BC to take over the Roman Eastern province. This battle, otherwise known as the Battle of Actium, took place in Actium, Western Greece (Tucker, 2010) and was the last battle of the civil wars that took place …show more content…
As a result, Rome was then divided into two sections in which Octavian was in charge of Italy and the western province, while Antony had claim over the eastern province (Tucker, 2010). Several events took place hereafter, including that of the affair between Antony and the Queen of Egypt. As this forbidden affair between two political parties continued on, tension and propaganda would rise amongst Antony and Octavian. Octavian accused Antony of betraying his own state, and with the support of the Senate he was able to use Antony’s relationship with Cleopatra VII to declare war on both Cleopatra and Antony under the claim of treason. Thus, what went from a civil war amongst Rome transformed into a great and powerful national crusade to defend Rome’s integrity against the rule and influence of Egypt (Shotter, 2005). The battle ended in both Cleopatra and Antony’s defeat and death. Cleopatra’s death was celebrated in one of Horace’s famous odes (65-8 B.C) stating, ‘Nunc est bibendum…’ meaning “Now is the time to drink...” (Commager, 1958 ), depicting the attitude of pride and relief when Rome had won the battle against Egypt. So, once Augustus had claimed his position in …show more content…
His rule set monumental milestones and changes in Roman history by restoring political peace power in the Roman Empire. Augustus understood the need for stability and order and accomplished this not by a time of passive resistance but an approach of arduous, yet rewarding military and governmental effort. Therefore, the Battle of Actium was a significant event in Roman history because without Augustus’ victory, he would never have been able to accomplish all the political and physical changes that he had during his reign. The Roman Empire would not be where was if it was not for Augustus’ victory, and ultimately, his leadership. Augustus not only changed the empire, but he expanded it by conquering the east and west regions and ultimately, united his people to form the Roman Empire. Emperor Augustus left a legacy and will always be remembered for his efforts to make Rome mighty