Julius Caesar was assassinated in 44 BC. Gaius Octavius Thurinus, his adopted son, vowed to avenge his death. He, along with Mark Anthony, launched the civil war called the Battle of Philippi. After their victory, a triumvirate of leaders divided the spoils (Roman Republic). This arrangement was short lived. By 27 BC, Octavius consolidated power, formed the new Roman Empire and became Emperor Augustus, a role he held for 40 years. To celebrate his success, he commissioned the Forum of Augustus (located next to Trajan’s Market). The centerpiece was the Temple of Mars Ultor (Mars the Avenger). Now only four of the Carrara marble columns remain upright. The forum was also filled with statues. The largest was of Augustus. Over 100 more portrayed the likeness of men who helped form the new empire. Other carvings showed members of the Julio-Claudian dynasty. This family produced five emperors from 27 BC until the death of Nero in 68 AD.
