At its height, the Roman Empire stretched across Europe, North Africa, and parts of Asia, influencing vast regions with its culture, governance, and military prowess. Established in 27 BCE, it reached its territorial zenith around 117 CE under Emperor Trajan, encompassing areas from Britain in the west to Egypt in the southeast, and from the Iberian Peninsula to the Black Sea. The Roman Empire's complex network of roads and cities facilitated trade, communication, and cultural exchange. Its legacy includes legal systems, architectural advancements, and the spread of Latin language, which significantly shaped the development of many modern European languages.