1. Roman Games

2. What were they?
1. Public games were provided by the emperor as part of the great religious festivals celebrated by the state.

3. Circus Maximus
1. Horse and chariot races

5. Theater
1. Dramatic performances

6. Colloseum
Gladiatorial games

8. Who fought? Criminals, slaves, and POWs
Some freemen who wanted to earn fame and fortune
Animals imported from around the world
Christians and Jews were killed as criminals b/c of their religious beliefs

9. Social and Political Purposes
Distracted the people from politics. “The people (who used to care about the important things) now have but two passionate desires: Bread and circus games.” Bread was passed out at the games by the gov’t.
Kept the population happy with their rulers. Politicians used handouts and petty amusements to gain popular support, instead of gaining it through sound public policy.
Educated people in Roman values. Strength, courage, training, discipline, glory and victory.
Advertised the wealth and power of Rome.

10. Assignment Read the packet on “Gladiators”
Create a pamphlet advertising the next gladiator game to the people of Rome!
Describe the gladiators
Explain the events that the people will be watching during the games
Include one picture