the roman empire. first and foremost, rome was fueled by trade. the empire was connected by roads,...

The Roman EmpireThe Roman Empire

First and foremost, Rome was fueled by trade. The empire was connected by roads, trade routes, diplomacy, and the threat of

violence. $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$

It was money, power, and influence that caused a breakdown in the republic. “Power corrupts, ultimate power corrupts ultimately.”

Many of the emperors of Rome were actually enlightened despots. Unfortunately, most of them were simply power-hungry tyrants.

The first was Augustus Caesar, who said that he supported the

republic, but laid the foundation for the empire.

He ruled for 40 years and…

rebuilt roads, imported grain to rid Rome of poverty, expanded trade routes, established a stronger civil service, stopped Proconsuls from exploiting their people, rebuilt the damaged buildings, was a patron of the arts, but failed to make a system for selecting future leaders.

Augustus Caesar started what would be known as the Pax Romana (Peace of Rome) that lasted for about 100 years.

Heh, heh… he said “piece”...

Crazy successors to Augustus Caesar: Tiberius (adopted son): false accusations of treason.

Caligula (Aug.Caesar’s grandson): mentally disturbed, sex addict

Claudius (Caligula’s Uncle): senile, couldn’t focus (Alzhiemers?)

Nero (Claudius’ stepson): insane, cruel

Nero bankruptRome by usingthe treasury for

horse racing andmusic. He killedhis wife, mother,senators, pets…

and himself.

Fortunately, Rome then got some good leaders. Nerva (chosen by the Senate), Trajan, Hadrian, Antoninus Pius, and Marcus Aurelius (who ruled at Rome’s height.)

Good government made good laws. Laws made people happy/peaceful. Happy peaceful people traded ($). Peace reduced a need for a military. A small military allowed rebellion. Rebellion caused good government to collapse.

The End

One of the best accomplishments was when Augustus chose professional governors rather than professional politicians.

Sarò indietro.

As the empire grew, they needed a type of law for non-citizens (jus gentium) rather than just a law for citizens (jus civile).