If we assume that the position and powers of the Princeps rose and developed subsequent to the Republican Civil Wars ending, following Octavian's return from Egypt (after he had defeated Antony and Cleopatra at the Battle of Actium in 27 BC), we can see that such wars had created a situation in which a system of rule under the 'Princeps' or ('first among equals') might take root and flourish. The traditional source of political power in …showed first 75 words of 1022 total…

…showed last 75 words of 1022 total…of himself as 'Princeps' and allowed him to transform Rome into the greatest city of the Empire. The building program of Augustus also developed his position of Princeps in a number of ways: Propaganda: Structures such as the Altar of Augustan Peace were symbolic of the new order and sent a message of peace, prosperity and plenty Relgion: The repair of old temples and the building of new temples represented a return to traditional values.