The rise of ambitious strongmen in the late Republic, such as Marius, Sulla, and Julius Caesar, undermined the institutions of the Republic, prioritizing personal gain over the state.

Julius Caesar's rise to power culminated in his appointment as dictator for life, which was perceived as a threat to the Republic, leading to his assassination.

The Roman Republic's success led to widespread unhappiness among various groups in society, creating a boiling pot of resentment despite its wealth and expansion.

Octavian's modest lifestyle and respect for the Senate helped him maintain power without appearing as a tyrant, contrasting with Caesar's arrogance.

The decline of the Roman Republic was marked by internal political rivalries that escalated after the Punic Wars, leading to a breakdown of elite consensus and increased civil strife.

Augustus frames his rise to power as a refounding of the Roman Republic, skillfully using propaganda to present himself as a defender of liberty rather than a king.

The Roman Empire's succession problem was a significant failure of Augustus, who relied on heredity for leadership, leading to a series of incompetent rulers until a shift towards selecting qualified successors emerged.

Half-citizens and loyal allies of Rome felt entitled to full citizenship after their sacrifices, but traditional Roman conservatism denied them this recognition.

Augustus's political savvy and manipulation of image and propaganda were key to his influence, even if he wasn't necessarily a great human being.