In this Grade 7 lesson from California myWorld Interactive Chapter 1, students explore how Rome grew from small settlements along the Tiber River into a powerful empire, examining the transition from the Roman Republic to rule by emperors. Students learn key concepts including the Pax Romana, the role of Augustus as the first Roman emperor, and how aqueducts and other architectural achievements supported Rome's expansion. The lesson also analyzes how Rome's geography, trade networks, and military power helped it gain and maintain control over people and territories across the ancient world.
Section 1
Augustus Creates the Roman Empire
After years of destructive civil wars, the Roman Republic was in ruins. A powerful general named Octavian defeated his rivals and brought an end to the fighting. He became the single, undisputed leader of Rome.
In 27 BCE, Octavian took the new name Augustus. He was careful not to call himself a king, as Romans disliked one-person rule. Instead, he called himself princeps, or "first citizen," to show respect for Roman traditions.
Section 2
Augustus Establishes the Pax Romana
After Augustus became emperor, the long and bloody civil wars finally ended. His rule began a new era of stability across the vast Roman world. This period of calm and safety became known as the Pax Romana, or Roman Peace.
The Pax Romana lasted for about 200 years. During this time, the empire enjoyed great prosperity. Trade flourished along safe sea routes and new roads, and the economy grew stronger.
Section 3
Romans Engineer an Empire
During the Pax Romana, Romans built amazing structures to manage their vast territory. They constructed a huge network of Roman roads, which allowed soldiers to march quickly to any part of the empire. These same roads also made it easier for merchants to travel and trade goods.
To support their growing cities, Roman engineers built long channels called aqueducts to carry fresh water from the countryside. They also developed a new building material, concrete, which was strong and easy to use. This invention allowed them to build large, lasting structures.
Section 4
Trade Unites the Roman World
During the Pax Romana, the Roman economy grew strong. Agriculture was the foundation of this wealth. Farms across the empire produced large amounts of food, especially grain, which fed the growing cities and the army.
This surplus food, along with goods like pottery and textiles, was sold throughout the empire. This widespread trade was possible because of Rome's excellent roads and safe sea routes. Goods and ideas moved easily from Britain to Egypt.
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Section 1
Augustus Creates the Roman Empire
After years of destructive civil wars, the Roman Republic was in ruins. A powerful general named Octavian defeated his rivals and brought an end to the fighting. He became the single, undisputed leader of Rome.
In 27 BCE, Octavian took the new name Augustus. He was careful not to call himself a king, as Romans disliked one-person rule. Instead, he called himself princeps, or "first citizen," to show respect for Roman traditions.
Section 2
Augustus Establishes the Pax Romana
After Augustus became emperor, the long and bloody civil wars finally ended. His rule began a new era of stability across the vast Roman world. This period of calm and safety became known as the Pax Romana, or Roman Peace.
The Pax Romana lasted for about 200 years. During this time, the empire enjoyed great prosperity. Trade flourished along safe sea routes and new roads, and the economy grew stronger.
Section 3
Romans Engineer an Empire
During the Pax Romana, Romans built amazing structures to manage their vast territory. They constructed a huge network of Roman roads, which allowed soldiers to march quickly to any part of the empire. These same roads also made it easier for merchants to travel and trade goods.
To support their growing cities, Roman engineers built long channels called aqueducts to carry fresh water from the countryside. They also developed a new building material, concrete, which was strong and easy to use. This invention allowed them to build large, lasting structures.
Section 4
Trade Unites the Roman World
During the Pax Romana, the Roman economy grew strong. Agriculture was the foundation of this wealth. Farms across the empire produced large amounts of food, especially grain, which fed the growing cities and the army.
This surplus food, along with goods like pottery and textiles, was sold throughout the empire. This widespread trade was possible because of Rome's excellent roads and safe sea routes. Goods and ideas moved easily from Britain to Egypt.
Book overview
Jump across lessons in the current chapter without opening the full course modal.
Continue this chapter