This Week: Births of future emperors, and decisive military battles

Notable events in ancient history for the week of July 30 - August 5

August 1, 30 B.C. - The soon-to-be first Roman Emperor Octavian (soon-to-be known as Augustus) takes control of Alexandria, Egypt, making the territory part of the Roman Republic (soon-to-be Roman Empire).

August 1, 10 B.C. - Future Roman Emperor Claudius is born. He was likely afflicted with cerebal palsy, and his family kept his from public life and in virtual seclusion until 37 A.D. He was named Emperor of Rome upon the assassination of Caligula, because there were no other family members left that could ascend to the throine. His disability did little to keep him from being an capable and important Emperor, and he was considered a very good Emperor, expanding the Empire to include Britain, and starting a great many building programs during his reign.

August 1, 126 A.D. - Future Roman Emperor Pertinax is born. He became Emperor of Rome after the assassination of Commodus in 192 A.D. He reigned for only 86 days, having been murdered by a member of the Praetorian Guard.

August 3, 8 A.D. - Roman general (and future Emperor) Tiberius defeats the Dalmatians' (modern Croatia) attempt at a revolt on the Bathinus river.