Read this description of the Roman Empire. The Roman Empire dominated the Mediterranean region from around 27 BCE to the fifth century CE. The capitol was in Rome, Italy, and the Romans conquered territory with their powerful military. They maintained control of their massive territory through an efficient government of administrators. This was mostly a time of peace and prosperity in which people were financially rewarded for their successes. The Romans developed an extensive legal system, and Roman art and architecture are still admired today. But not all members of Roman society had the same access to peace and prosperity. The Romans also practiced slavery, and women had limited authority.

In a three-paragraph response, explain how a historian might use each of the organizing principles of region, period, and theme to construct a historical narrative of the Roman Empire. What questions might the historian ask? What is one value and one potential limitation of each approach? Be sure to clearly develop and organize your ideas.