Augustus’ great-uncle and adopted father was Julius Caesar

Julius Caesar had to go elsewhere for his much-desired heir after his sole legitimate daughter, Julia, died in childbirth. His great-nephew turned out to be a perfect choice. Gaius Octavius was born in 63 BCE and spent most of his childhood away from his renowned relative, Caesar, who was engaged in conquering Gaul. The boy's protective mother forbade him from accompanying Caesar on his expedition. She eventually yielded, and Octavius finally left Italy in 46 BCE to visit his famous relative. Caesar was in Spain at the time, conducting war against Pompey the Great.

However, Octavius was stranded in a hostile area on his journey to Spain. Despite this, the young man (who was 17 at the time) negotiated the treacherous terrain and arrived at Caesar's camp. His great uncle was so delighted by the act that he began to prepare Octavius for a political career. Then, in 44 BCE, Octavius received word of Caesar's assassination while undergoing military training in Apollonia (modern-day Albania). He fled to Rome, fearful for his safety and future. Imagine Octavius' amazement when he learned that Caesar had adopted him and named him as his sole successor. Octavius was given the name Gaius Julius Caesar when he was adopted, but we know him as Octavian.