Roman Republic to Empire Overview

Study Notes

Rome was dangerous in 70 BC, with politicians and generals vying for power.
Cicero, a philosopher and public speaker, advocated for shared power among the upper classes and limiting the power of generals.
Julius Caesar, a powerful general, rose to prominence between 58 BC and 50 BC by conquering Gaul (France).
Caesar's popularity and military victories were challenged.
He refused to relinquish command of his armies and was eventually defeated by Pompey in 48 BC.
Pompey was killed, and Caesar returned to Rome to establish himself as dictator.
Caesar's actions angered senators.
He was assassinated on March 15, 44 BC (the "Ides of March").
Following Caesar's death, several figures arose to power: Mark Antony, Octavian (later Augustus), and others.
Political upheaval and power struggles continued after Caesar's death.
Octavian, through various conflicts, ultimately consolidated power and became sole ruler of Rome.
In 27 BC, Octavian transitioned to a position of power shared with the Senate and was referred to as "first citizen."

Augustus and subsequent emperors expanded the Empire, leading to increased trade.
Raw materials and exotic goods were sought and traded.
The Pax Romana, a period of peace and prosperity lasting from around the late 200s BC to AD 180 , was ushered in by the Romans.
Romans had significant contributions in these areas: science, engineering, medicine, architecture, and art.
Aqueducts are examples of advanced Roman architecture utilized for water transport.
The Roman legal system, known as civil law, greatly influenced legal systems throughout the world.
The Roman Empire developed effective administration for a large and complex empire.
Literature thrived, including works like Virgil's Aeneid, and Roman mythology.
Latin language influenced the development of Italian, French, Spanish, Portuguese, and Romanian.