The Roman Empire refers to the period after the Roman Republic when Rome became an autocratic state ruled by emperors. It began in 27 BCE with Augustus and lasted until 476 CE.
Related terms
Pax Romana: A period of relative peace and stability throughout the Roman Empire that lasted from 27 BCE to 180 CE.
Colosseum: An iconic amphitheater in Rome where gladiatorial contests, animal hunts, and other spectacles took place.
Barbarians: Non-Roman people living outside of the empire's borders who often clashed with or invaded it.