The Roman Empire

The Roman Empire began in 27 BCE when Augustus became the first Roman emperor. At its largest, the empire stretched from Britain in the north to Egypt in the south. It included lands in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. The Romans built roads, aqueducts, and great buildings. They spread their language, laws, and culture across a huge part of the world.

Life in the Empire

The Roman Empire brought many good things to the lands it ruled. Romans built straight roads that connected faraway cities. They created aqueducts to carry clean water to towns. People enjoyed public baths, theaters, and arenas. Latin, the Roman language, was spoken everywhere. Roman laws helped keep peace and order. Many of these ideas still affect our world today.

The Fall of the Empire

Over time, the Roman Empire became too big and hard to control. It was split into two halves, east and west. The western half grew weak. Invaders attacked its borders. Prices went up and life became harder for ordinary people. In 476 CE, the last emperor in the west lost power. The eastern half, called the Byzantine Empire, lasted almost a thousand years longer.

Fun Facts

• At its peak, the Roman Empire had about 60 million people living in it.
• The Romans built over 50,000 miles of roads, many of which are still used today.
• Roman concrete was so strong that many Roman buildings are still standing after 2,000 years.

Did You Know?

The Romans loved to eat lying down. At fancy dinner parties, guests would recline on couches and eat with their fingers!