Marcus Vipsanius Agrippa

Lore & Background

Agrippa defeated Sextus Pompeius at the battles of Mylae and Naulochus in 36 BC. He served as curule aedile in 33 BC and commanded Octavian's fleet at the Battle of Actium in 31 BC. After Octavian became emperor, Agrippa assisted in making Rome 'a city of marble,' renovating aqueducts and creating baths, porticoes, and gardens. He was granted veto power over the Senate and the power to present laws. He died in 12 BC at age 50–51, and his remains were placed in Augustus' own mausoleum.

Reader's Guide

Agrippa's significance lies in his dual role as a military commander and civic builder under Augustus. His victory at Actium secured Octavian's sole rule, paving the way for the Roman Empire. As a builder, he transformed Rome's infrastructure, improving aqueducts and public spaces, and constructing the original Pantheon. His administrative powers—veto over the Senate and legislative initiative—were nearly equal to Augustus's, reflecting his unique position. He also oversaw a complete survey of the empire and created a circular chart of the known world, later engraved on marble. His legacy endured through his descendants: he was husband to Julia the Elder, maternal grandfather of Caligula, and maternal great-grandfather of Nero. Agrippa's combination of military prowess, architectural patronage, and political influence made him indispensable to Augustus's reign.

Did You Know?

• Agrippa was born breech, which Pliny the Elder said gave him the cognomen 'Agrippa'.
• He suffered from lameness as a child.
• He was responsible for the construction of the original Pantheon.
• His remains were placed in Augustus' own mausoleum.