The Empire
27 BCE - 476 CE
How it Started
The Roman Empire started as a Roman Republic. As the republic grew, many began to think that Rome would be better of with one all-powerful leader. Many powerful generals began fighting for the rule. One of these ambitious men, known as Julius Caesar, was especially bent on making this idea come to life. While giving a speech in the Senate, Caesar was assassinated. Unfortunately for his assassins, who undoubtedly hoped that Caesar's death would bring an end to his ideals, this act only further drove his supporters, who probably viewed him as a martyr of sorts towards the cause.
Following the Battle of Actium in 31 BCE, Julius Caesar's heir, Augustus Caesar, formerly known as Gaius Octavian Thurinus, became the first emperor of Rome. It is a common mistake to say that Julius Caesar was the first emperor. He was a dictator, but the Senate didn't support him enough to grant him the title of 'emperor,' unlike Augustus, who they praised and lavished power upon.
This new leadership was a dictatorship. The new head of government, the emperor, was supported by a strong military to force change. It wasn't long before the Senate lost nearly all power. People still elected senators but Senators could only advise the Emperor. The emperor made all laws and passed all taxes. For the next 500 years, Rome was ruled by emperors, each supported by a large military.
There were good things about rule by emperor in ancient Rome. Women gained power, crime was reduced, and welfare programs were established to help the poor. Huge entertainment centres were built, and admission was free. But it was still a system of dictatorship, and it had its problems. Some emperors were good, such as Augustus Caesar, some were bad, like Galba and some were just plain crazy, such as Caligula, who appeared to be completely insane.
There were good things about rule by emperor in ancient Rome. Women gained power, crime was reduced, and welfare programs were established to help the poor. Huge entertainment centres were built, and admission was free. But it was still a system of dictatorship, and it had its problems. Some emperors were good, such as Augustus Caesar, some were bad, like Galba and some were just plain crazy, such as Caligula, who appeared to be completely insane.