History | Ch 2:- Empires across continents

Q: What were the main languages used for administration in the Roman Empire?

• A: Latin and Greek.

Q: What was the 'Principate' established by Augustus?

• A: It was a regime where Augustus, the first emperor, was considered the 'leading citizen' (Princeps) rather than an absolute ruler.

Q: How did the Roman Empire ensure its vast territories were governed efficiently?

A: By relying on urban centres and local upper classes to administer provinces and collect taxes.

Q: What marked the transition from the 'early' to 'late' Roman Empire?

• A: The third century, characterised by political and military crises.

Q: Which emperor converted to Christianity and made it the official religion of the Roman Empire?

• A: Emperor Constantine.

Q: What led to the division of the Roman Empire into eastern and western halves?

A: Political and military challenges, along with the need to manage the vast territory more effectively.

Q: What legal rights did Roman women enjoy in terms of property?

• A: They could own and manage property independently and retain rights in their natal family's property after marriage.

Q: What were 'amphorae,' and why were they significant in the Roman economy?

• A: Amphorae were containers used for transporting goods like wine and olive oil, providing evidence of trade and economic activity.

Q: Why did the Roman government shift from silver to gold coinage?

A: The exhaustion of Spanish silver mines and insufficient metal stocks to support a stable silver-based currency.

Q: What was unique about the Roman army compared to its rival, the Persian Empire?

• A: The Roman army was a paid professional force, unlike the conscripted army of Persia.

Q: How did the emperor maintain control over the Roman Empire's vast military?

• A: By ensuring loyalty through wages and service conditions while managing provincial armies.

Q: What caused frequent mutinies within the Roman army?

A: Dissatisfaction with wages and service conditions.

Q: What characterised the cultural diversity of the Roman Empire?

• A: A mix of languages, religions, and local customs, including the use of Latin, Greek, and regional languages like Aramaic and Coptic.

Q: What was the role of bishops in the Christianisation of the Roman Empire?

• A: They led the Church, enforced rigid beliefs, and confronted emperors when necessary.

Q: How did polytheism coexist with Christianity in the Roman Empire?

A: Polytheism persisted in many areas, especially in the western provinces, even as Christianity spread.

Q: Discuss the significance of Constantine's establishment of Constantinople.

• A: It served as a new capital, strategically located and surrounded by the sea, strengthening administrative and military control.

Q: How did urbanisation contribute to the Roman Empire's stability?

• A: Cities facilitated tax collection and administration, supported by local elites collaborating with the Roman state.

Q: What was the impact of Diocletian's reforms on the Roman Empire?

A: They included fortifying frontiers, reorganizing provincial boundaries, and separating military and civilian functions.