2 Minute History The Battle of Actium Rome's Turning Point

The Battle of Actium in 31 BC was a decisive naval clash that marked the end of the Roman Republic and the rise of the Roman Empire. Octavian, later Augustus Caesar, defeated the combined forces of Mark Antony and Cleopatra, leading to their eventual downfall. This victory solidified Octavian's power and paved the way for him to become Rome's first emperor, transforming the political landscape of the ancient world.