Marcus Aemilius Lepidus facts for kids
Marcus Aemilius Lepidus was an important Roman politician. He was born around 88 or 89 BC and died in 12 or 13 BC. He was a close friend and helper of Julius Caesar, one of Rome's most famous leaders.
When Caesar was away fighting battles, Lepidus stayed in Rome as his main assistant. After Caesar's death, Lepidus became the Pontifex Maximus, which was the highest priest in Roman religion.
Forming the Second Triumvirate
After Julius Caesar was killed, Rome faced a lot of trouble. To bring order and power back, Lepidus joined forces with two other strong leaders: Octavian and Mark Antony. Together, they formed a powerful group called the Second Triumvirate.
This group was created to take control away from the traditional Roman government, which included the Consuls and the Senate. The Triumvirate's rise to power marked the end of the Roman Republic, a time when Rome was governed by elected officials.
Lepidus's Role and Later Life
Lepidus was older than Octavian and Mark Antony. After a big battle called the Battle of Philippi, the Triumvirate divided the Roman lands. Lepidus was given control over Spain and parts of North Africa.
Later, Lepidus faced some challenges. He was involved in events in Sicily that led to him losing much of his political power. However, he was allowed to keep his important role as Pontifex Maximus. Lepidus lived a peaceful life after that, dying in a place called Circeii in Italy around 12 or 13 BC.
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