Day 17 – Augustus Changed Rome Forever

Did You Know? Italy

Although Julius Caesar is one of history’s most famous Romans, it was his adopted son Augustus who transformed Rome forever.

After years of civil war, Augustus became Rome’s first emperor in 27 BC. He did not rule with fear, as he once said: “The greatest ruler is one who is obeyed without being feared.” He ushered in two centuries of peace known as the Pax Romana. He did not rule as a dictator; instead, he transitioned to the Principate system. He created the first public firefighting and police force. Formed an elite army known as the Praetorian Guard, used to protect the head of state and key installations. He built and restored temples, expanded roads, and constructed the Forum of Augustus and the Altar of Peace. Augustus boasted, “found Rome a city of bricks and left it a city of marble.”

Under Augustus, Rome grew into one of the world’s greatest cities, and his leadership laid the foundation for an empire that would influence civilization for centuries.

Many historians consider Augustus to be the greatest leader Rome ever produced.

Related Articles:

• Arch of Constantine
• Cristo Redentore (Christ the Redeemer)
• Il Colosso dell’Appennino (The Apennine Colossus)

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