History of Wars Summary 14 - Battle of Actium 7: The Fall of Antony

After their defeat at the Battle of Actium, Antony and Cleopatra returned to Alexandria, Egypt. Despite the loss, they attempted to continue their resistance using their remaining troops and finances. However, following the collapse of their fleet at Actium, the situation rapidly deteriorated as soldiers began deserting the army as well. Octavian prepared to march east and attack Egypt the following year. Antony made a final effort to rally his forces and block Octavian's advance, but several allied powers had already abandoned him. In 30 BC, as Octavian's forces approached Alexandria, Antony prepared for a final battle. However, with parts of his army and navy defecting to Octavian, resistance became virtually impossible. Antony, believing he was defeated, committed suicide, and Cleopatra followed soon after. Thus, their combined forces were completely dismantled, and Octavian rose to become the sole supreme ruler of the Roman world.