Imperial Image - Octavian Comes to Rome Flashcards
Who was Julius Caesar?
A gifted military general and dictator who led successful campaigns, including the Gallic Wars.
What was Julius Caesar’s family background?
Born into the ancient Julian Clan, a patrician family claiming descent from Aeneas and Venus.
What political faction did Julius Caesar align with?
He was a populares, favoring the urban poor and plebeians.
What initiatives did Julius Caesar support to improve living conditions for the urban poor?
- Grain Dole
- Land distribution bill
- Doubling soldiers’ pay
What was the First Triumvirate?
An alliance formed in 60 BC between Julius Caesar, Pompey Magnus, and Marcus Crassus for personal advantage.
What significant action did Julius Caesar take in 49 BC?
He marched his army across the Rubicon, signaling civil war.
What title did Julius Caesar declare for himself in 44 BC?
Dictator in Perpetuity.
Who were the key conspirators in Julius Caesar’s assassination?
Brutus and Cassius.
What date was Julius Caesar assassinated?
March 15, 44 BC (Ides of March).
Who was Octavian?
Caesar’s heir, born into the politically insignificant Octavii family.
What did Julius Caesar’s will specify about Octavian?
Octavian was named his heir and was to receive 75 denarii for each plebeian in Rome.
What phrase describes the strategy of using cash and entertainment to win support?
Panem et circenses (bread and games).
What did Octavian claim after a comet appeared at the games?
It was a sign of his father (Caesar) rising to become a god.
What was Mark Antony’s role after Caesar’s death?
He positioned himself as Caesar’s legitimate heir and delivered a speech at Caesar’s funeral.
Why did the Senate support Octavian over Antony?
- Seen as the lesser evil
- Politically inexperienced at 18 years old
What significant military event occurred in 43 BC involving Octavian?
He was inducted into the Senate and led the Republican army against Antony at the Battle of Mutina.
What was the outcome of the Senate’s refusal to grant Octavian honors after his victory?
Octavian marched on Rome demanding the consulship.
What was the Second Triumvirate?
An alliance formed in 43 BC between Octavian, Mark Antony, and Lepidus.
What were the purposes of the Second Triumvirate?
- Provide security for the Empire
- Avenging Caesar’s death
- Eliminate Senators and public enemies
What does ‘Divi Filius’ mean?
Son of a God.
What was the significance of Julius Caesar being declared a god?
Allowed Octavian to claim divine ancestry, enhancing his authority.
What was the mos maiorum?
An unwritten code of behavior emphasizing duty to one’s ancestors.
What military campaign did the triumvirs launch in 42 BC?
A campaign against Brutus and Cassius at the Battle of Philipi.
What was the result of the Battle of Philipi?
Decisive victory for Octavian and Antony, forcing Brutus and Cassius to commit suicide.
What temple did Octavian promise to build in thanks for victory?
A temple to Mars Ultor (Avenger).
