AP World History POD #4 Mediterranean Democracy Pax Romana

Class Discussion Questions McKay – “Augustus’s Settlement”, pp

1. What was the Pax Romana? Augustus restored peace bringing prosperity to the Mediterranean world Augustus created a constitutional monarchy Greco-Roman culture expanded into Gaul, Spain, Germany, Eastern Europe, and Western Africa

2. What reforms did Augustus (Octavian) institute? Attempted to restore the republic after years of civil war and anarchy Planned for the Senate to take an active role in this process, but did not give it the power to complete this task As a result of a weak Senate much of the burden for governing fell to Augustus A constitutional monarchy was formed and by his acquisition of titles and power he created the position of Emperor Maintained a great deal of power as a commander fo the Roman Army The army was made into a professional force creating a reliable tool for the defense of the empire Created 40 new colonies that facilitated the spread fo the Latin language and culture

3. How were the Roman provinces impacted by the Pax Romana? Encouraged local self-government and respected local customs Expanded into northern and western Europe (modern Germany) The Roman Army built camps and barracks in these newly acquired regions linking them with roads Settlements rose up around the camps – through this process Roman culture continued to spread Most native people only adopted the elements of Roman culture that fit their needs Most, however, realized that acceptance of Roman culture brought with it political goodwill

4. What happened to the Roman Empire after the death of Augustus? The principate was not an official office and could therefore, not be legally handed to a chosen successor Augustus had previously begun sharing his tribunican powers as Augustus on Tiberius creating the first Roman dynasty Five Good Emperors ( A.D.) – ruled wisely, fairly, and humanely / created an era of peace and prosperity / the emperor and his power was essential to holding the empire together / Roman Army became stationary at fixed points in the empire designed to repel invaders and maintain order / Roman Army still had Italian officers but the masses were made up of soldiers from the frontier provinces / the army became indifferent to Rome and its’ traditions