Final answer:
Lepidus was initially a member of the Second Triumvirate and was given control of Africa. Internal conflict later led to his forced retirement by Octavian in 36 BCE, ending his position of power.
Step-by-step explanation:
After the death of Julius Caesar, Lepidus held the position of one of the members of the Second Triumvirate. This political alliance, which also included Mark Antony and Octavian (Caesar's heir), was formally recognized by the Senate. Lepidus was initially allocated the governance of Africa as the empire was divided among the members of the Second Triumvirate. However, after the defeat of Caesar's assassins and political enemies, internal strife led to Lepidus being pushed aside by his more ambitious colleagues. Eventually, Lepidus was forced into retirement by Octavian in 36 BCE and ceased to be an influential political figure. Thus, as the Roman Empire was restructured, Lepidus's role diminished, ending his tenure in significant political power.