Roman Empire Expansion and Social Policies

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Questions and Answers

What characterized the period of the Antonines, excluding Commodus?

Economic decline and military withdrawals
Economic prosperity and territorial expansion (correct)
Cultural stagnation and isolationist policies
Political turmoil and frequent assassinations

During which emperor's reign did barbarian invasions become a major concern?

Antoninus Pius
Trajan
Hadrian
Marcus Aurelius (correct)

How did the Antonines address the needs of different social classes?

Through collaboration with the Senate and public works for lower classes (correct)
By promoting military service as the only means of advancement
By implementing strict tax laws on the wealthy
By limiting the rights of artisans and simplifying governance

What role did gifts and public shows play during the Antonine period?

<p>They were essential in maintaining support from various classes. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which group was increasingly recognized during the Antonine period?

<p>The middle and lower classes, including various workers (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

The Antonine Period

The period of Roman history under the Antonine emperors, from 96 to 192 AD, known for relative peace and economic prosperity.

Economic Prosperity and Territorial Expansion

A time of economic growth and territorial expansion during the Antonine period. This brought increased wealth and security to the Roman Empire.

Collaboration with the Senate and Support for the Lower Classes

The Antonine emperors sought to maintain good relations with the Senate and aristocracy, but also extended support to the lower classes through public works, donations, and entertainment.

Barbarian Invasions during Marcus Aurelius' Reign

Barbarian invasions, particularly from Germanic tribes, became a significant threat to the Roman Empire during the reign of Marcus Aurelius.

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Rising Influence of Middle and Lower Classes

This refers to the growing prominence of middle and lower classes in Roman society, such as soldiers, craftspeople, and government officials, during the Antonine period. This shift marked a change from an emphasis on aristocratic power.

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Study Notes

Period of Economic and Territorial Expansion

The period was marked by economic prosperity and territorial expansion, particularly under Trajan.
Expansion continued even during the reign of Marcus Aurelius (161-180 AD), but was accompanied by incursions by barbarian populations from the north.

The Antonine emperors (excluding Commodus) prioritized cooperation with the senate and aristocracy.
They demonstrated fairness towards lower social classes through public works, entertainment, and donations.
They also showed favoritism towards emerging groups like soldiers, artisans, and members of the imperial bureaucracy. This approach gained significant social support.

Dates

The period of Trajan's reign wasn't specified.
Marcus Aurelius ruled from 161-180 AD.
Apollodorus of Damascus built the Forum and Markets of Trajan between 107 and 112 AD.