A historical study examining the transformation of Rome from the era of Julius Caesar through the reign of Emperor Commodus. Written by Yann le Bohec, a noted specialist in Roman military and political history, this work traces the evolution of the city from a republican capital to the imperial center of the Roman Empire. The book explores how Rome's urban landscape, political structures, and social fabric changed during this pivotal period in ancient history, offering insights into the development of one of history's most influential cities.