... to increase the prosperity of the ruling elite and the military, thus ensuring their loyalty. The Greek peninsula, widely considered the center of Mediterranean intellectual activity prior to and throughout the era of Roman dominance, seems to have been largely overlooked in the road-building scheme of Augustus. His cultural manipulation toward a general complacency rather than spiritual and scientific expansion is further supported by his emphasis on gladiatorial contests ... and other public spectacles as the prime source of distraction for the citizenry. ...

• Word Count: 458
• Approx Pages: 2
• Grade Level: Graduate