In this Grade 4 lesson from Discovering Our Past: a History of the World, students explore how Emperor Augustus transformed Rome by establishing the Pax Romana, a roughly 200-year period of peace and prosperity. Students examine Augustus's key reforms, including the creation of a permanent professional army, the Praetorian Guard, a provincial governor system, and a revised tax and legal code. The lesson helps students understand how these achievements shaped the Roman Empire and influenced the Western world for centuries.
Section 1
Augustus Transforms Rome from Brick to Marble
After becoming emperor, Augustus rebuilt public buildings in marble, created a professional army, reformed taxes, appointed governors, and distributed grain to the poor, ushering in the Pax Romana era.
Section 2
Five Good Emperors Strengthen the Roman Empire
Nerva, Trajan, Hadrian, Antoninus Pius, and Marcus Aurelius ruled from A.D. 96-180, reforming laws, supporting education, helping the poor, and strengthening Rome during a time of economic growth.
Section 3
Roads and Currency Unite Rome's Vast Empire
Paved roads connected the empire's 3.5 million square miles, while a common currency and measurement system facilitated trade. The navy secured waterways, allowing goods to flow safely throughout Rome's territories.
Section 4
Roman Citizens Share Equal Rights Under Law
By A.D. 212, every free person within the empire gained citizenship, ensuring equal treatment under Roman law. This shared identity helped unite diverse peoples across the vast territories Rome controlled.
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Section 1
Augustus Transforms Rome from Brick to Marble
After becoming emperor, Augustus rebuilt public buildings in marble, created a professional army, reformed taxes, appointed governors, and distributed grain to the poor, ushering in the Pax Romana era.
Section 2
Five Good Emperors Strengthen the Roman Empire
Nerva, Trajan, Hadrian, Antoninus Pius, and Marcus Aurelius ruled from A.D. 96-180, reforming laws, supporting education, helping the poor, and strengthening Rome during a time of economic growth.
Section 3
Roads and Currency Unite Rome's Vast Empire
Paved roads connected the empire's 3.5 million square miles, while a common currency and measurement system facilitated trade. The navy secured waterways, allowing goods to flow safely throughout Rome's territories.
Section 4
Roman Citizens Share Equal Rights Under Law
By A.D. 212, every free person within the empire gained citizenship, ensuring equal treatment under Roman law. This shared identity helped unite diverse peoples across the vast territories Rome controlled.
Book overview
Jump across lessons in the current chapter without opening the full course modal.
Continue this chapter