Ptolemy XII - Auletes:
Cleopatra's father was Ptolemy XII who was nicknamed Auletes for his flute playing. Ptolemy XII was overthrown in 58 B.C. While he fled to Rome, his daughter Berenice ruled in Egypt. In 55 B.C. Ptolemy, with the help of Rome (Pompey) took back his throne. Berenice was executed.
Ptolemy XIII:
When Ptolemy XIII died in 51 B.C., the care of Egypt was left in the hands of his approximately 12-year old son Ptolemy XIII and his daughter Cleopatra VII (born 69 B.C.). Ptolemy XIII was kept in the background for three years until he rebelled under the influene of his advisor Pothinus and sent Cleopatra into exile. With Caesar's help, Cleopatra regained the throne. Pothinus died in battle and Ptolemy, trying to escape. Cleopatra had to marry another brother, Ptolemy XIV.
Caesar:
Cleopatra contrived to meet Caesar and persuade him to help her defeat her brother. This led to the famous story of Cleopatra meeting the Roman leader rolled in a carpet that was presented to him as a gift. Cleopatra had a love affair that produced a son named Caesarion.
Mark Antony:
Following the assassination of Julius Caesar, Cleopatra threw in her lot with Mark Antony in 42 B.C. Through their relationship, she gave birth to twins, Cleopatra Selene and Alexander Helios. Antony married Cleopatra in 36 B.C. and produced another son, Ptolemy Philadelphus. The pair styled themselves gods, which upset the Romans. Octavian declared war on Egypt in 31 B.C. In 30 B.C. Antony died.
Octavian:
Octavian was not captivated by Cleopatra. He intended to take her to Rome where she would be humiliated by being led through Rome in Octavian's triumphal parade. Cleopatra didn't want to be taken prisoner, so she committed suicide in 30 B.C.
