

The Roman Caesars' Guide to Ruling
156 snips Dec 16, 2024
Barry Strauss, a classicist and military historian, shares insights on the Roman Caesars and their leadership lessons. He discusses how Augustus consolidated power and contrasts him with the notorious Nero, whose urban renewal efforts challenge the 'bad emperor' narrative. Strauss highlights Vespasian's innovative rise and Marcus Aurelius’s struggles, revealing how philosophical ideals often clash with the harsh realities of governance. The conversation uncovers timeless strategies that shaped the Roman Empire and continue to resonate in modern leadership.
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Augustus's PR Strategy
- Augustus masked his power grab, claiming to restore the Republic.
- He held Republican offices and adopted titles like "First Citizen" to avoid the image of a king.
Consolidating Power: Start Hard
- Start hard when consolidating power, like Octavian/Augustus.
- Come down hard on rivals and enemies initially, then show generosity.
Octavian's Social Climb
- Octavian's father wasn't noble, hindering his social standing.
- He strategically used Caesar's name and married Livia to gain elite status.