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The Roman Revolution

The Second Triumvirate Dissolves

Almost immediately, Octavian and Antony began to squeeze out Lepidus. They garnered the lion's share of territories and honors and offices, effectively dividing the Empire between them. Octavian got the West while Antony got the East.

There followed an interlude of peace, at least among the triumvirs. Neither liked or trusted the other; conflicts were usually resolved by Octavian giving way in order to prevent open war. The Triumvirate was renewed in 38 for five more years, though Lepidus got little by the arrangement.

Octavian was inclined to avoid conflict among the triumvirs in part because he was not ready to test his strength, but also in part because he was preoccupied with rebellions elsewhere. Most notably, Sextus Pompeius, Pompey's son, fomented a major revolt in Spain. It took Octavian four years to bring him down (40-36). audio gif Sextus Pompeius might fairly be called the last real Republic commander, and his death closed another door on the Republic.

All during these years, Octavian steadily gained power. In 35, Lepidus, dissatisfied, rebelled. He was defeated and forced into retirement. This left only Antony with whom to share power.

And Octavian had plenty of power by 35. As a result of the years of campaigning since Philippi, he could command 45 legions and 500 warships, a force significantly larger than Antony's. But Antony wasn't worried, for he had a powerful ally, one that, he believed, would guarantee victory: Egypt.