[morphing libertarian]

They certainly had continuous power through the assassination of Julius.

never said it didn’t.

The definitions I have seen of empire: some say under a single authority (emperor) and others say under an oligarchy (could include senate). The republic in Rome would certainly have been governing an empire under the second concept and for nearly 200 years prior to Augustus.

[Flag_This]

They certainly had continuous power through the assassination of Julius. never said it didn’t.

I never suggested you did. I was speculating. You don't have an argument with me - you have an argument with every history book written since Tacitus. Who was the first Roman emperor?