The Roman Empire was the largest in the ancient world, and it left its cultural mark on Europe and the world in its art and architecture, its roads, and its legal system. This third volume in the illustrated Pocket Dictionary series introduces twenty-seven of the most important emperors who ruled this extraordinary civilization. Read about the mighty Augustus, who defeated Antony and Cleopatra and created a new Rome out of chaos; Trajan, who increased the empire to its greatest extent; and Septimus Severus, the only emperor of African heritage, who rebuilt Rome and the empire after ruinous wars. Here also are those rulers whose names became synonymous with the excesses and cruelty associated with absolute power: Nero, who murdered his relatives and swept away much of Rome for his own palace, and Caligula, an avid fan of public executions and gladiatorial contests, who spent a fortune on such luxuries as a marble stable and gold food for his favorite horse. Illustrated with coins, jewelry, busts, and ancient monuments, this handy reference guide offers an introduction to a fascinating cast of characters whose deeds have echoed down through history. Ages twelve and up.