The Roman Empire and Pax Romana

Vocabulary flashcards covering the rise of the Roman Empire, the Second Triumvirate, Augustus, Pax Romana, and key aspects of Roman society and culture.

Post-Caesar Civil War

The conflict that broke out after Julius Caesar's death, destroying what was left of the Roman Republic.

Second Triumvirate

An alliance formed by three of Caesar's supporters—Octavian, Mark Antony, and Lepidus—who took control of Rome and ruled for 10 years after crushing Caesar's assassins.

Lepidus

A member of the Second Triumvirate who was forced to retire by Octavian when their alliance broke down.

Mark Antony

A member of the Second Triumvirate who became Octavian's rival, allied with Cleopatra in Egypt, and committed suicide after being defeated in civil war.

Cleopatra

The ruler of Egypt who fell in love with Mark Antony, allied with him against Octavian, and committed suicide following their defeat.

Augustus

The title meaning "exalted one" accepted by Octavian when he became the unchallenged ruler of Rome.

Imperator

A title meaning "supreme military commander" retained by Octavian, from which the word emperor is derived.

Pax Romana

Meaning "Roman Peace," a 207-year period of peace and prosperity across the Roman Empire beginning under the rule of Augustus in 27 BC.

Extent of the Roman Empire

At its peak, an empire encompassing over 3 million square miles—including Spain, Mesopotamia, North Africa, and Britain—with 60 to 80 million people and 1 million residents in Rome itself.

Civil Service (Roman Empire)

A system established by Augustus that paid workers, drawn from Plebeians and former slaves, to manage affairs of government.

Agriculture (Roman Empire)

The most important industry in the Roman Empire, employing 90% of the population in farming.

Colosseum

A massive Roman arena holding over 50,000 spectators, used by the government to host games, races, mock battles, and gladiator contests to entertain and control the public.