Augustus
by Colton Teter
ruling from 27 BC until his death in 14 AD
He replaced the Roman republic with an effective monarchy and during his long reign brought peace and stability.
Augustus was born Gaius Octavius on 23 September 63 BC in Rome.
Instead of following Caesar's example and making himself dictator, Octavian in 27 BC founded the principate, a system of monarchy headed by an emperor holding power for life. His powers were hidden behind constitutional forms, and he took the name Augustus meaning 'lofty' or 'serene'. Nevertheless, he retained ultimate control of all aspects of the Roman state, with the army under his direct command