Julius Caesar controlled the whole Roman Empire and named himself dictator, consul, and tribune for life. He invaded many countries. Caesar was gaining more popularity and respect as he conquered more land. He was praised by the common people, but the Senate feared that Caesar was gaining too much power, and he was very much anti- democratic. Augustus in many ways was very much like his great uncle. After the death of Caesar, Augustus took over after his great uncle. Through cold, hard political deceitfulness he was able to attain supremacy in Rome. Like Caesar, Augustus was only able to establish power by marching into Rome and compelling the senate to name him consul. In 27 B.C., when Octavian became the first emperor of Rome, the Senate changed his name to Augustus meaning exalted and respected one. While in office, the senators gave him the legal power to rule Rome's religious, civil and military affairs, with the Senate as an advisory body, effectively making Augustus emperor. He formed the Second Triumvirate, which included himself, Marcus Lepidus, and Antony. They killed over two thousand of their enemies. Even though Cicero befriended Augustus, he was hated by Antony so therefore he killed. This shows how heartless Augustus had been during his reign. .
During the reigns of Caesar and Augustus, they accomplished many great victories for the well-being of Rome. Though both Caesar and Augustus were very much alike, they did have their differences. It is true that Caesar was openly contemptuous of the Republic and the Senate, he did weed out corruption, replacing dishonest governors with honest ones. Furthermore, he attempted to win over his enemies by putting them into office. He also established colonies in conquered countries such as Carthage, Corinth and Spain and encouraged poor Romans to settle there. In this sense, he was a classical imperialist, a leader who tried to conquer land and spread the culture.
