Early Roman History

The Founding of Rome Romulus and Remus Video Romulus and Remus are Rome's twin founders in its traditional foundation myth. They are descendants of the Trojan prince and refugee Aeneas, and are fathered by the god Mars. Their uncle, jealous of power, exposes them to die in the wild. They are found by a she-wolf who suckles and cares for them. The twins are eventually restored to their regal birthright, acquire many followers and decide to found a new city.

Geography of Rome

Location The Italian peninsula offered protection by the hills and mountains found throughout the area

Mountain Ranges The Alps Mountains, Europe’s highest mountains, separated the Italian peninsula from the rest of the continent. The Apennine Mountains run north to south along the length of the Italian peninsula

Tiber River - Agriculture The growing agricultural system was aided by the nearby Tiber River. The Tiber provided a reliable source of fresh water used for irrigating their farms As well as drinking water for humans and animals. However, unlike many other civilizations, Rome did not develop in the river’s delta.

Mediterranean Sea Trade was an important part of life in ancient Rome. Rome developed several trade routes throughout the Mediterranean Sea and established trade with other civilizations. Later, the Roman armies used these same routes to conquer large amounts of territory and expand the empire along the Mediterranean.

Climate The region had mild, rainy winters and hot, dry summers. Made it possible for the region to develop a strong agricultural base. Grew wheat, grapes, and olives and build a consistent food supply.

Early Influences on Rome

The Etruscans Architecture The Arch Engineering Roads, Bridges, Irrigation Warfare Phalanx Formation Metalworking Used Raw Materials: Copper, Lead, Iron, Tin, Silver, Gold and Alloys (Bronze) Religion Signs in Nature: Reading Lightning, Flight of Birds, Stars and Entrails. Sculpture Nature and Proportion (Realism) Social Organization Wealth and Social Status, Clothing (Toga), Daily Activities Sporting Events Funeral Practices (Gladiators) and Horse Races

The Greeks Coinage Currency, Images on Coins Monumental Buildings Temples and Palaces Philosophy Question the Natural World Pottery Storage and Artwork Science Science and Math Advancements Theater Dramas and Comedies Writing Written Language (Stone and Papyrus) Mythology Greek Gods and Goddesses

Greek Gods vs. Roman gods Zeus=Jupiter Poseidon=Neptune Hades=Pluto Hermes=Mercury Hera=Juno Hephaestus=Vulcan Athena=Minerva Artemis=Diana Ares=Mars Apollo=Apollo Aphrodite=Venus Cronus=Saturn