How did Augustus change the Government of Rome? He took away most of the senate. He made the senate more powerful. He was spected the traditions of the republic or he allowed the citizens to hold the power.
Augustus, also known as Octavian, played a significant role in transforming the government of Rome. He did not take away the entire senate, but rather restructured its composition and powers, making it more favorable towards his own authority. Here are the key changes he implemented:
1. Consolidation of Power: Augustus carefully orchestrated his rise to power through political maneuvering, but he presented himself as the restorer of the Roman Republic rather than a dictator. He maintained the outward appearance of a traditional republican government while consolidating power in his own hands.
2. Establishment of the Principate: Augustus became the first Emperor of Rome and established the principate, a form of government that retained certain republican institutions but concentrated power in the hands of the emperor. This marked the transition from the Roman Republic to the Roman Empire.
3. Reforms to the Senate: Augustus significantly reduced the size of the Senate and made it more loyal to him. He filled vacant senatorial positions with his supporters and allies, ensuring that decisions made in the Senate aligned with his policies and objectives. This allowed him to effectively control the Senate and limit opposition.
4. Expansion of Bureaucracy: Augustus expanded the bureaucratic apparatus within the government. He created specialized administrative positions and expanded the role of equestrians, a social class who served as middle-ranking officials in the Roman government. This enabled him to exert control over different aspects of governance and enhance the efficiency of the administration.
5. Enhancement of Civic Life: Augustus also undertook various measures to improve the lives of Roman citizens, such as public works projects, religious reforms, and the promotion of moral and social values. These initiatives aimed to strengthen the loyalty of citizens to the state and foster a sense of unity under his rule.
Overall, while Augustus did not completely discard the institutions of the Roman Republic, he transformed the government by concentrating power in his hands, effectively controlling the Senate, and expanding the bureaucracy.