Rome: The Beginning Foundations & the Early Republic

Background: Alexander’s Empire By 150 C.E. the Hellenistic world in decline Rome growing and gaining strength Rome profoundly impacted by these cultural influences

Romulus & Remus According to the Legend of Romulus and Remus, how did Rome begin?According to the Legend of Romulus and Remus, how did Rome begin? Why do you think the myth of the twins was so appealing to believe?Why do you think the myth of the twins was so appealing to believe?

The Geography of an Empire Built on seven rolling hills at a curve on the Tiber River Near the center of the Italian Peninsula

Livy “The Early History of Rome” As you read, consider: Why was Rome’s geography so important? “Not without reason did gods and men choose this spot for the site of our city – the hills, the river to bring us produce from the inland regions and sea- borne commerce from abroad, the sea itself, near enough for convenience yet not so near as to bring danger from foreign fleets, our situation in the very heart of Italy – all these advantages make it of all places in the world the best for a city destined to grow great.” (29 B.C.E)

The First “Romans” Latins: ( century B.C.E) 1 st around Rome Palatine Hill Greeks ( B.C.E) Colonize southern Italy & Sicily Greek cultural influence Etruscans ( B.C.E.) Native to central & northern Italy Current day Tuscany

Roots of Roman Culture Greek Influences Greek Religion Oikos: self sufficient household Arete: honor as a patriarchal figure Obedience to authority Greek Stoicism influences Roman virtus: masculinity – accepting one’s fate Etruscan Influences Alphabet Gladiatorial Games Religious Beliefs Construction of statues for the gods Architecture Marsh drainage

Roman View of the Greeks & Etruscans Viewed both as inferior due to the conquering and subduing of both Irony? The Romans received many of their cultural values from both groups Similarities between Rome and America? Ex: Greek values of obedience to authority that will be shown in obedience to the Roman state

Rome: The Beginning The Early Republic & the Punic Wars

The First Romans Etruscan King of Rome (600 B.C.E) Accomplishments: Turns villages into a city 1 st temples & public centers Forum: Heart of Roman political life Forum: “A medium of open discussion. A public assembly involving an audience or panel discussion”

Patricians vs. Plebeians Wealthy landowners = most of the power (7-10%) Vs. Farmers, artisans, and merchants = majority of the population

The Roman Republic

The Twelve Tables Why is a written code of law important to this or any civilization? The Twelve Tablets: 451 B.C.E. Hung in the Roman Forum Form the basis for Roman law The tablets outline political and social rights for the plebeians They establish the idea that all free citizens had a right to the protection of the law

Expansion: The Mediterranean Romans recognize key to expansion is control of the Mediterranean Sea To gain this control, the Romans must defeat the Carthaginians

Hannibal Invades Rome Hannibal: Carthaginian General - brilliant military strategist who devises a surprise attack on Rome Roman General, Scipio, attacks and forces Hannibal back to Carthage Victory gives Romans control of the Mediterranean Sea

The Punic Wars Expansion through Conquest 4th Century Romans dominated central Italy Eventually defeat Etruscans and Greeks By 265 B.C. Romans masters of all Italy and want to expand rule Neighboring Latins became full citizens, other conquered people enjoyed citizenship but not the vote, and others became allies of Rome Expansion through Trade Good access to the Mediterranean Traded Roman wine and olive oil for food, raw materials, and manufactured goods Often interfered by other powerful cities such as Carthage