1. How did ancient Rome develop into and maintain an empire? Notes #23

2. Ancient Rome was able to conquer other lands as a result of their strong army and fair treatment of conquered peoples.

3. By 44 B.C., Rome had conquered all of Spain, Gaul, Italy, Greece, Macedonia, and parts of Britain, North Africa, and Asia Minor, becoming an empire.

4. Rome’s political system was an example of a strong central government, led by an emperor.
Emperor Augustus
Emperor Tiberius
Emperor Caligula

5. Beginning with Emperor Augustus, Rome experienced Pax Romana, which was a 207 year period of peace and prosperity (from 27 B.C. to 180 A.D.).

6. During this time, Rome grew wealthy by developing an extensive trade network around the Mediterranean Sea.
Roman road network

7. Rome opposed other religions in the empire, such as Judaism and Christianity.

8. During the Jewish Diaspora, Rome forced the Jews to disperse from their homeland because of their constant revolts against Rome.

9. Rome also persecuted Christians who refused to worship Roman gods.