Question

The Roman Republic became the Roman Empire when? 1) the patricians took control of government 2) the First Triumvirate was established 3) the Romans first expanded outside Italy 4) the Senate gave Octavian the title Augustus

Answer 1

The Roman Republic became the Roman Empire when the Senate gave Octavian the title of Augustus in 27 BCE, marking the start of his reforms and centralized rule that transformed the political system of Rome. Therefore, the correct option is 4).

Step-by-step explanation:

The transformation from the Roman Republic to the Roman Empire is marked by the pivotal moment when the Senate bestowed upon Octavian the honorary title of Augustus in 27 BCE. This event symbolized the conclusion of one political era and the dawn of another, as Octavian, also known as Caesar Augustus, initiated reforms that fundamentally altered the Roman governmental structure. He reformed taxation, improved infrastructure, established a standing army, and created essential city services, effectively laying the groundwork for imperial rule.

Despite Octavian's claim of restoring the Republic, his establishment of the principate system and reception of the title Augustus are widely recognized as the end of the Republic and the beginning of the Roman Empire. This period was characterized by significant changes in Roman governance, society, and internal stability, moving away from a collective republic towards a system led by a single sovereign ruler.

Therefore, the correct option is 4).