Gaius Caesar

Gaius Caesar (born 20 bce—died February 21, 4 ce, Lycia) was the grandson of the Roman emperor Augustus (reigned 27 bce–14 ce), who would probably, had he survived Augustus, have succeeded to the imperial throne.

Caesar was the eldest son of Augustus’ closest associate, Marcus Vipsanius Agrippa, and Julia, the emperor’s daughter. Adopted by Augustus in 17 bce, he was granted proconsular powers in 1 bce for a mission to Armenia, which had been invaded by the Parthians. Gaius established a pro-Roman king on the Armenian throne but was seriously wounded (2 ce) while attempting to suppress an uprising in the area. He eventually died of his wounds on his way back to Italy. His death forced Augustus to adopt Tiberius and make him his successor.