1.Division Of The Roman Empire

The Roman Empire can be split into two major phases: the early empire (up to the third century) and the late empire (after the third century). This division is significant due to the differences in political, social, and economic scenarios between the two periods.

2.Cultural Diversity Vs. Uniformity

Compared to its contemporary, Iran, predominantly governed by Iranian populations under the Parthians and Sasanians, the Roman Empire comprised a mosaic of different cultures and territories. Despite this diversity, these regions were unified under a single governance system. The dual languages of Latin (in the west) and Greek (in the east) acted as mediums of administration, connecting various ethnic groups.

3.The Role Of Augustus And The Principate

The ‘Principate’ was the political system established by Augustus in 27 BCE. Although Augustus was the singular authority, he maintained an illusion of sharing power with the Senate. He presented himself as the Princeps, or leading citizen, rather than an absolute monarch, to placate the longstanding Roman institution of the Senate and maintain ties with Rome’s republican past.

4.The Senate