Augustus at War

by Lindsay Powell · 2016

Augustus at War: The Struggle for the Pax Augusta offers a penetrating assessment of Augustus as ancient Rome’s military commander‑in‑chief. Lindsay Powell dismantles the myth of a peaceful Pax Romana, showing that between 31 BC and AD 14 the Roman army was constantly engaged in campaigns, raids, and suppression of rebellions. The book explains how Augustus, despite personal infirmities, doubled the empire’s size through strategic use of loyal deputies, institutional reforms, and relentless warfare. Featuring over 90 profiles of his commanders, detailed analyses of campaigns, and lavish illustrations—including maps, color plates, and order‑of‑battle schematics—the work reveals the strategic genius behind the early imperial system.