The Founding of Rome Chapter 12 Lesson 1

Objectives Explain how Rome was founded Describe the advantages of Rome’s location

Vocabulary Arable – land that is good for crowing crops Forum – public square in ancient Roman cities where the Romans exchanged goods and ideas Confederation – group of governments joined together for a common purpose

Settling in Seven Hills The Latins settled on the seven hills south of the Tiber River in about 1,000 BC The hills provided protection from attack, resources for building, and land for farming

A Cultural Mix The Etruscans and the Greeks, both of whom had settlements on the Italian Peninsula, influenced the Romans The Romans adopted and adapted aspects of Etruscan and Greek cultures, including their architecture, religion, and alphabet

The City of Rome Rome’s location along the Tiber River was ideal for communication and trade Roman legends such as that of Romulus and Remus explain Rome’s beginning

Etruscan Rule Etruscans became the leaders of Rome in about 616 BC and built much of early Rome The Etruscans were experienced at governing large areas, which helped them organize and govern Rome’s territory

Summary Latins founded the city of Rome in about 750 BC. Legend says that the twins Romulus and Remus founded the city According to history, Rome began as small villages, which joined together and grew The city’s location was ideal for farming and was easy to defend. The neighboring cultures of the Etruscans and the Greeks greatly influenced early Roman culture In time, Etruscan kings ruled over the Romans

Reading Check Questions What attracted the Latins to the hills near the Tiber River? Arable land, a long growing season, protection, wood, and stones What two cultures influenced the Romans? Etruscan culture and Greek culture Who was the first legendary ruler of Rome? Romulus What influence did the Etruscan kings have on the development of Rome? They completed building projects and expanded and organized Rome.