THE RISE OF THE ROMAN EMPIRE


". . . the Empire of Rome comprehended the fairest part of the earth, and the most civilized portion of mankind. The frontiers of that extensive monarchy were guarded by ancient renown and disciplined valour. The gentle but powerful influence of laws and manners had gradually cemented the union of the provinces. Their peaceful inhabitants enjoyed and abused the advantages of wealth and luxury. The image of a free constitution was preserved with decent reverence . . . "

- Edward Gibbon, The History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire

The following maps trace the rise of the Roman Empire from the unification of the Italian peninsula under the Republic to the last conquests of Septimius Severus, which represent the apex of the Roman Empire.

Blue areas represent recently conquered provinces, purple represents previously acquired provinces, and grey represents provinces abandoned.


First Map