Who is Augustus from The Ancient City: Life in Classical Athens & Rome and what is their importance?

Augustus is one of the great emperors of ancient Rome. After the defeat of Mark Anthony and Cleopatra in 31 BC at the Battle of Actium, Octavian, who is re-named Augustus by the Senate, comes into power. Augustus leaves his mark on Rome, which is greatly transformed under his orders. One of the first buildings that Augustus orders to be constructed is his forum, which is built to celebrate the victory over Julius Caesar's assassins. Augustus shows an interest in the arts when he orders the building of the Theatre of Marcellus, which has seating enough for 14,000 spectators. Although Augustus is renowned for the splendid buildings and monuments built during his reign, his own residence, while elegant, is considered rather modest.