Pax Romana

Definition: Pax Romana is Latin for "Roman Peace." The Pax Romana lasted from about 27 B.C. (with Augustus) until A.D. 180 -- the death of Marcus Aurelius. Some date the Pax Romana from A.D. 30 and the reign of Nerva. Others date it as early in the reign of Augustus as the year A.D. 14. The Pax Romana was a period of relative peace and cultural achievement in the Roman Empire, especially in the area of building (e.g., Hadrian's Wall) and Silver Age Latin literature.

• Ancient Rome Glossary