Julio-Claudian Dynasty of the Roman Empire (by Simeon Netchev) - A depiction of the evolution of the first imperial dynasty of ancient Rome , the Julio-Claudians that began with Augustus (Julius Caesar 's adopted son) and included the reigns of Tiberius , Caligula , Claudius , and Nero . During their time, Rome was at the height of its wealth, power, and sophi...