by Fran Moriarty

Created on: July 26, 2009

The Battle of Actium was the final battle of the Roman Republic. On September 2, 31 BC, the forces of Octavian Caesar defeated the combined navies of Mark Antony and Cleopatra. His victory solidified him as supreme leader of Rome and its subordinate states. The senate confirmed on him the title "Augustus." Augustus Octavian Caesar became the first emperor of the Roman Empire.

The battle of Actium provided the final piece to complete the domination of all lands that bordered the Mediterranean Sea. Rome had defeated the Carthaginians and Greeks during the Punic Wars. This defeat resulted in Roman provinces extending from Asia Minor through Europe and into North Africa. The defeat of Antony and Cleopatra completed the ring around the Mediterranean.

Julius Caesar entertained friendly relations with Egypt. Trade benefited both countries and Caesar's romantic desires were fulfilled. Cleopatra borne Caesar a son, Caesarion. When Caesar was killed, his will proclaimed Octavian, his grand nephew, as his heir and successor. Cleopatra presented her son, Caesar's flesh and blood, as rightful heir. Mark Antony with the Egyptian claim demanding that Caesarion be proclaimed King of Rome.

The Republic responded in horror at the thought of a monarchy. Octavian was given command of Rome's legends and given the senate's blessings to defend the Republic. He moved across Europe and encountered Mark Antony and Cleopatra's forces at Actium. Betrayal, sickness and poor communication resulted in a great victory for Octavian. The defeat of the pro-monarchy forces of Antony and Cleopatra was haled as the salvation of the Republic. Rome conferred the "Augustus" on Octavian. Octavian Augustus Caesar was now ruled the world. He became the first Emperor of the Roman Empire. The republic was dead.

Following Augustus Caesar's ascent to power in Rome, a period of peace followed. "Pax Romana" became the way of life around the world. That peace was enforced by the brutal and well disciplined legionnaires of Rome. Disturbance of the peace was met with the lash or dagger. Failure to compile was punished with condemnation to slavery or crucifixion. Rome would have peace.

One can only speculate the differences if Antony was victorious at Actium. Antony did not win and the Roman Empire established its laws, customs and trade everywhere in the Mediterranean. Latin would become the basis for language in most Roman providences. Architecture, technology and education still dots the modern countries that once were the Roman Empire.

The Battle of Actium was the beginning of the Roman Empire. The "Rise of Rome" over 700 years had reached its pinnacle. The new empire, as successful as it was, was the beginning of the "...Fall of Rome." Augustus would become erratic in behavior and his successors proved bizarre.

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