By estanford on 03-09-2008
(Caius Iulius Caesar Octavianus Imperator Augustus)
Octavian of the Julii, adopted son of Gaius Julius Caesar, named Emperor and Augustus by decree of the Senate, called the son of a god. He was also Pontifex Maximus, hence the special toga that covers the back of his head. (The office of Pontifex Maximus, or Supreme Bridge-builder, was an ancient one long before it was assumed by the Christian faith in the form of the Papacy.)
Octavian was also remarkable in that he delivered peace and prosperity to the Roman Empire. Not an easy task, considering how bloody the politics of the late republic had become -- and how much of that blood was on Octavian's own hands. His transition from ruthless power-player to benevolent autocrat is, in my opinion, one of the most surprising episodes in the history of politics.