Rome's transition from republic to empire

Rome's transition from a republic to an empire was one characterized by social tensions between the wealthy patricians and the poorer plebeians. The twelve tables served as the first set of laws governing the Roman city-state, but it was more favored towards the patricians. As social tensions arose, a man named Tiberius, who proposed equal land distribution for the poor classes was brutally murdered by the senate. The expansion of the Roman empire led to an increase in social tensions. Eventually, a massive civil war broke out between two generals, Marius and Sulla, bringing never before seen bloodshed to the Roman empire. Following the turmoil, a man named Julius Caesar attempted to bring about order and justice for the poor as he named himself dictator and transformed the republic into a monarchy under his rule. His assasination led to the rule of his son, Augustus, who followed in the footsteps of Caesar and ruled in a monarchy as well, bringing an end to the republic. The transition from a republic to an empire was not an easy one for Rome, as the wealthy patricians wanted to stay in power, while the poorer plebeians wanted reform and equality in society.