The Rise of Rome

Italian Geography Few natural harbors Rich in farmland Much larger population than Greece

Romulus and Remus Mythical founders of Rome (753 BCE) Raised by a wolf Romulus killed his brother, founded Rome

Early Government Social status based on land ownership Large land owners became members of the Senate Kings ruled

The Republic Senators overthrew the monarchy and established res publica in 507 BCE Center of power-the Senate “Struggle of the Orders” between plebeians and patricians

Society Basic social unit was the family Oldest male, or paterfamilias, exercised absolute authority Social inequality was accepted as part of the natural order Women had no public role

Roman religion-mostly derived from the Greeks Greek God Roman Equivalent Zeus Jupiter Poseidon Neptune Hades Pluto Ares Mars Athena Minerva Artemis Diana

Expansion Reached a peak in the 2nd and 3rd centuries BC All male citizens who owned land served in army Conquered peoples could become citizens, soldiers

Rise of the Generals As empire expanded, loyalty shifted from Senate to generals Julius Caesar named “dictator for life” in 44BC Caesar’s murder set off years of civil war

The Republic is in big trouble. Can YOU save it??