Saturday, October 22, 2016
Rulers Trajan and Augustus
During this period of Roman history, two main rulers made significant impacts on not only the overall Republic, but also the people that encompassed it. Augustus's rule is interesting because it directly followed his uncle's, Julius Caesar, assasination. After much conflict with Antony and Cleopatra during the Battle of Actium, Augustus sealed his role as the first real emperor of Rome. With titles like, Augustus, a name given to him by the Senate, and "First Citizen of the State," it is evident that Augustus wanted to relate to the people, especially Caesar's followers, rather than rule by fear. Similarly, Trajan was all about ruling for the people. Both leaders attempted to beautify the city and make economic improvements such as better roads, aqueducts, and systems of protection, like the Praetorian Guard. All these public works signify both leaders as in line with Cicero's ideal of the best and most fit ruler.
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I think it's also worth mentioning that Rome severely declined after the rules of Trajan and Augustus such as during the reign of Nero when Rome burned while Nero allegedly danced. Augustus and Trajan both sought to entertain the people because it seemed that they believe their absolute power should be used to give back to the people. Without the people on your side, how can you be a successful ruler. Both Trajan and Augustus sought to expand and beautify the city to gain the support of the people.
I think it is also important to look at how much Rome expanded under the rule of Trajan. He obviously placed a huge emphasis on the expansion of Rome and the civilization of the rest of the world. Unfortunately, a lot of this new land was lost after he died and this eventually was a major contributing factor to the collapse of Rome.
I would like to add that Rome prospered under Augustus because of his cunning and his leadership ability. Once he became emperor he gave up the title of consol and the title of censor but retained all the powers of each position. He also had control over the make up of the senate. Even so, he refused the title of monarch. This gave him the ability to rule Rome with absolute authority while still maintaining that Rome was a democracy. In this way he was able to implement changes that allowed Rome to grow and prosper and keep the good will of the people.
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