Ancient Rome Notes

Geography Located on peninsula in southern Europe thus creating a sea-faring traders. Shaped like a high-heeled boot extending into the Mediterranean Sea. Two major mountain ranges, the Alps in the north and the Apennines in the south.

Geography Hilly, rugged land with several volcanoes such as Mt. Vesuvius. Some fertile flatland can be found. Mild climate makes it excellent for farming grains, grapes, olives, and citrus fruits. Tiber River is one of several rivers that provided fresh water.

Economy Surplus of crops such as grains and oils enabled growth of Rome. Sea traders traveled to Greece, Spain, northern Africa, and kingdoms of Asia.  

Economy Merchants sold meats, vegetables, cloth, sandals and pottery as well as books on Egyptian papyrus.

Achievements Constructed roads of long lasting materials to withstand traffic and exposure to weather which connected large areas of the country. Created aqueducts or channels that carried fresh water from the mountains to the cities. Used concrete, a mixture of sand or gravel and cement as a building material. 

Achievements To support the roof they created a vault; a series of arches. Sought knowledge in order to improve their lives. The story of the Trojan War hero, Aeneas, tells how Ancient Rome was formed with a group of people called the Latins.

Social classes Strong belief in such values as justice, honesty, valor, and loyalty. Society was divided into two groups: patricians, (wealthy leaders) and plebeians (the common people). Rich Ancient Romans Commoner Ancient Romans

Social classes Slaves were common and those that were educated often held highly skilled professions such as teachers and doctors. The Forum, Rome’s public meeting place, served as heart of city where government, religion, and trading took place.

Government & Leadership Formed a republic where the people elected leaders to govern them. Tripartite government divided responsibilities three ways. Two rulers called magistrates ruled at the same time to guarantee against corruption. Roman Senate consisted of wealthy, powerful citizens who advised leaders.

Government & Leadership Assemblies and Tribunes contained both patricians and plebeians. Law of Twelve Tables ensured fair treatment of citizens and noncitizens. A census, or population count, was used to regulate taxes.

Religion Polytheistic (the belief in many gods). The apostle, Paul, would bring Christianity to this area. Allowed many religions to practice in fear of offending any god.

Sports To distract Romans from the problems of city life the government provided entertainment at large public arenas. The Colosseum was a large arena in Rome where ancient Romans attended entertainments such as chariot races. Gladiators were trained warriors who would fight to the death in the Colosseum.