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The Roman Empire. Economic Turmoil. Rome changed from republican government to dictator-ruled empire. The gap between rich and poor grew wider. Urban poor: Homeless/jobless soldiers from the countryside. Made up about ¼ of Roman society. . Military .
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Economic Turmoil • Rome changed from republican government to dictator-ruled empire. • The gap between rich and poor grew wider. • Urban poor: Homeless/jobless soldiers from the countryside. Made up about ¼ of Roman society.
Military • Soldiers change loyalty from citizens working for the republic • Soldiers fought for pay and owed allegiance only to their commander. • Making it possible for commanders to do what?
Julius Caesar • Wealthy military leader who was elected consul. • Triumvirate: Group of three leaders who dominated Rome for 10 years. (Julius Caesar, Crassus, and Pompey. • Became governor of Gaul • Rival= Pompey who fled Rome when Caesar marched his legion to Rome.
Julius named dictator • Named dictator for life in 44 BCE –absolute ruler. • Expanded the Senate adding friends. • Creating jobs through new public building projects. • Senate concern over his power/fame= Stabbed to death in the senate chamber.
Roman Empire • Augustus: Ruler after Civil wars broke out • PaxRomana: Roman Peace • Leads to Christianity in Rome • Stabilized frontier, glorified public buildings, Stabilized government • Agriculture/Trade: became the most important industry in the empire. • Common coinage called denarius
Society • Slaves=conquered people brought back by Roman soldiers. Working both in the city/farm • Gods/Goddesses: Divine spirits resided all around them. • Government/religion linked= Symbols of the state