The Roman Empire

3. THE ROMAN EMPIRE - As a result of its conquest, Rome had a greater population and more raw materials.

- It benefited from increased wealth and trade.

- The wars also cause social conflicts, because farmer had to leave their land and serve in the army.

- As the republic weakened, army generals took the real power: - Three generals, Julius Caesar, Pompey and Crassus, ruled as a triumvirate, before Julius Caesar became dictator.

- After Caesar’s assassination, three more generals created a second triumvirate: Ocavian, Mark Anthony and Lepidus.

- Octavian defeated its other members and was declared the Emperor Augustus in 27 BC.

3. THE ROMAN EMPIRE IMPERIAL GOVERNMENT -

Many institutions, such as the senate, continued to exist under the Empire.

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But, the emperors now had supreme authority.

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In the 1st and 2nd centuries AD, the Roman Empire expanded its frontiers and there was little social disorder.

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This period of stability was known as the pax romana or the Roman peace.

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The Empire was divided into provinces that were ruled by a governor.

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Roman frontier, or limes, was defended by a long line of fortificatons .

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The conquered people were strongly romanised and adopted Roman customs, beliefs and language.

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- the conquered people became Roman citizens after an imperial law of 212 AD.