The correct statements that describe political, social, or cultural changes that took place in Rome during the early empire are:
- duty to pay taxes and serve in the army for citizens
- new buildings and temples, many made of marble
The other statements regarding "many wars within the empire and with foreign powers" and "decline in prosperity and political influence abroad" may have aspects that were true at different times, but they do not accurately capture the broader developments characterizing the early empire, which was marked by relative stability (Pax Romana) and significant cultural and architectural achievements.