The Internal Roman Conflict between Antonius and Octavius (44-27 BCE)

Between 44 and 27 BCE, Rome witnessed a bloody struggle between Antony and Octavian, who differed in their political ambitions after the assassination of Julius Caesar. The conflict began with the Third Civil War, which arose following Caesar’s death. Antony and Octavian fought for control of power. Initially, they formed an alliance to avenge Caesar’s murder, but later, sharp disagreements emerged between them. Antony dominated the East and was allied with Cleopatra VII, while Octavian sought to gain influence in the West. The war concluded with the naval Battle of Actium in 31 BCE, where Octavian defeated the forces of Antony and Cleopatra. After pursuing Antony to Egypt, both he and Cleopatra committed suicide in 30 BCE. Octavian then became the sole ruler of Rome, founding the Roman Empire after years of civil wars. In 27 BCE, he declared the beginning of the imperial era and relinquished the republican titles.