History Fact Finder | Government and Politics - Who Were The Most Important Rulers Of The Roman Empire?

Who were the most important rulers of the Roman Empire?

During the five centuries of its existence, the Roman Empire (27 B.C.–A.D. 476) was ruled by noteworthy as well as infamous leaders. For example, after his uncle Julius Caesar was murdered, Octavian, (63 B.C.–A.D. 14; also called Augustus) became Rome's first emperor. He ruled during the Pax Romana (a period of peace). This peace allowed the arts, literature, education, and commerce to flourish.

The second emperor of Rome was Augustus's adopted son Tiberius (42 B.C.–A.D. 37). Tiberius was a good administrator, but his economic measures made him unpopular with senators, who plotted his downfall. Tiberius's nephew Caligula (A.D. 12–41; born Gaius Caesar) ascended the throne upon Tiberius's death. After a short period of rule, Caligula became ill. Thereafter he demonstrated the erratic (unusual) behavior for which he is infamous and...

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