The transformation of state and society, the violent transference of power and property, and the establishment of Augustus' rule and that of the Empire are presented in a narrative which quotes from ancient evidence, refers seldomly to modern authorities, and states controversial opinions openly.

I. Introduction: Augustus and History ; II. The Roman Oligarchy ; III. The Domination of Pompeius ; IV. Caesar the Dictator ; V. The Caesarian Party ; VI. Caesar's New Senators ; VII. The Consul Antonius ; VIII. Caesar's Heir ; IX. The First March on Rome ; X. The Senior Statesman ; XI. Political Catchwords ; XII. The Senate Against Antonius ; XIII. The Second March on Rome ; XIV. The Proscriptions ; XV. Philippi and Perusia ; XVI. The Predominance of Antonius ; XVII. The Rise of Octavianus ; XVIII. Rome under the Triumvirs ; XIX. Antonius in the East ; XX. Tota Italia ; XXI. Dux ; XXII. Princeps ; XXIII. Crisis in Party and State ; XXIV. The Party of Augustus ; XXV. The Workig of Patronage ; XXVI. The Government ; XXVII. The Cabinet ; XXVIII. The Succession ; XXIX. The National Programme ; XXX. The Organization of Opinion ; XXXI. The Opposition ; XXXII. The Doom of the Nobiles ; XXXIII. Pax et Princeps ; Appendix: The Consuls ; Index ; Genealogical Tables

`Review from previous edition a work of brilliant scholarship which can be enjoyed by the expert and the layman alike' A.J.P. Taylor, Guardian `his work, well documented and well written, extraordinarily persuasive and interesting, is the best book on Roman history that has appeared for many years' Sir Maurice Bowra, Spectator `one of the most important books on Roman history since Mommsen' A.F. Giles, Classical Review `the most complete and the most challenging history of its subject which has appeared for many years, in England perhaps at any time ... Nor is this book only for the specialist, for the subject is of prime importance, the information is the best which modern research can provide.' Oxford Magazine

Ronald Syme was one of the most distinguished Roman historians of the 20th century. A classic in its field - this book remains one of the most comprehensive and entertaining works on Roman history available. Immensely informative and rewarding, to be enjoyed by the general reader as well as the scholar Superbly researched, and written in a vibrant and engaging narrative style Includes genealogical tables

Sir Ronald Syme (1903-1989), one of the most distinguished Roman historians, was Camden Professor of Ancient History at Oxford University. In addition to numerous awards and honors, he collected honorary degrees in eleven countries on five continents.

Ronald Syme was one of the most distinguished Roman historians of the 20th century. A classic in its field - this book remains one of the most comprehensive and entertaining works on Roman history available. Immensely informative and rewarding, to be enjoyed by the general reader as well as the scholar Superbly researched, and written in a vibrant and engaging narrative style Includes genealogical tables