In 43 BC Augustus's great-uncle, Julius Caesar, was assassinated and in his will, Octavius, known as Octavian, was named leader. He fought to get revenge for Caesar and in 31 BC Augustus defeated Antony and Cleopatra at the Battle of Actium. He was now the ruler of Rome. Instead of following Caesar's example and making himself dictator, Octavian in 27 BC founded the system of monarchy headed by an emperor holding power for life. His powers were hidden behind constitutional forms, and he took the name Augustus meaning 'lofty' or 'serene'.He then got he ultimate control of all aspects of the Roman state, with the army under his direct command.