Improvements under the Empire

When the Roman Republic failed, and Rome became an Empire, ruled by emperors, some things stayed the same. Families still lived in one home. Old age was still honored. Everyone had to worship the Roman gods. The center of each town was still the Forum. The rich lived in beautiful homes. The poor worked all the time.

Many things changed. Although the Senate met and argued, and had advisory power, the real power was now in the hands of an all-powerful emperor. The Roman people would never have accepted a king. However, they seemed to have no problem accepting the leadership of a dictator, who called himself an emperor. Under Augustus, the first Roman emperor, the people got used to being ruled by one leader.

Other changes included:   

• Establishment of Public Health Programs: The government created new public health programs. One program distributed free bread to workmen on their way to work in the morning. 
  
  

• Reduction in Crime: Under the empire, the Roman legionnaires policed Rome's streets. They worked in small groups. They could quickly band together in large groups as necessary. Their hob-nailed sandals made quite a loud sound on Rome's cobblestone streets. When criminals heard the legionaries approaching, they typically scattered. The legionaries were armed and well trained.
  
  

• Improvements for Women: Life was very different for women during the Empire than it was under the Republic. During the Empire, it was legal for women to own land, run businesses, free slaves, make wills, inherit wealth, and get a paid job. Women could even use the public baths. There were separate hours for men and women, but women were allowed inside. These were all new privileges. 
  
  

• Free Live Theatre: Under the empire, Rome built huge theatres. Plays were no longer performed only in the Forum. Admission was free.
  
  

• Free Spectacles: The government constructed other huge public buildings and improved open-air facilities. These were used to host  events called spectacles. Chariot racing was held in the Circus Maximus. The Colosseum hosted the gladiator games. Admission to spectacles was free.