Question

What did Caesar Augustus do, to ensure peace and reduce the possibility of civil war and lawlessness?

made a large empire
revival of ancient traditions
built a strong central government
started a bold building program
program of urban renewal

Answer 1

All of the above. Augustus combined political, cultural, military and physical reforms to create the Pax Romana and reduce the chance of renewed civil war:

- Made a large (and reorganized) empire: he secured and stabilized Rome’s frontiers, reorganized provinces, and created a clearer chain of command so borders were defended and competition among generals was reduced.
- Built a strong central government: he concentrated real power in the princeps, created professionalized civil and military institutions (standing army loyal to the emperor, Praetorian Guard, salaried civil officials), and regularized administration and taxation.
- Revival of ancient traditions: through moral legislation, religious restorations, and public ceremonies he promoted social cohesion, legitimacy, and support for his rule.
- Started a bold building program / program of urban renewal: massive public works (temples, forums, roads, bridges, aqueducts, grain distribution, the famous “I found Rome a city of brick…”) created jobs, improved living conditions and infrastructure, and increased popular support while reducing disorder.

Each of these measures reinforced the others, producing stability and reducing lawlessness and the likelihood of civil war.