f thedecadence caused by economic change, by enacting social reforms. The Lex Juliade maritis ordinandis prohibited celibacy and childless marriages. It was madecompulsory for Roman citizens to get married. Special benefits, like tax breaks,were established for couples with children. This law had the added advantage ofreplacing the decimated Roman population that was lost during the numerous civilwars. To handle the issue of adultery, which the Romans then practicedextensively, Augustus enacted Lex Julia de adulteriis that made adultery apunishable crime. He also passed laws that restricted luxury and extravagance.In addition, Augustus placed special significance on the traditional religion ofRome. He believed that prosperity and peace in the state relied on the faithfulfulfillment of religious duties to the gods. This traditional belief he expressedby restoring temples and joining the sacred college of pontiffs and augurs, and heeventually became pontifex maximus. Augustus became not only the secular headof Roman Empire but the religious leader as well....
