Download World History – Mrs. Schenck Roman Social Classes

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World History – Mrs. Schenck
Roman Social Classes
Government EQ: “What determined social class in ancient Rome?”
Social Classes in Rome were based on:
1. heredity (family)
2. wealth ($)
3. citizenship / freedom
4. gender
(A) Patricians:
Wealthy landowners from old families, educated in government and
politics
(B) Senators:
Held the highest public offices in government, unpaid, gave the emperor
his title
(C) Equestrians:
Originally the Roman cavalry (soldiers on horseback) – they become the
wealthy businessmen and managers
(D) Plebeians:
Working class (farmers, bakers, craftsmen, etc.) – given “bread and
circuses” (food and entertainment) to keep them from rioting
(E) Slaves and Freemen:
Usually prisoners of war (POWs), belong to owners who can do anything to
them, could be freed
(F) Soldiers:
Serve for 20 years then given land, protect the empire – so the government
needs to keep them happy
(G) Women:
Controlled by their fathers or husbands, freedom depends on their social
class and wealth
(H) People on the Frontier:
Originally not citizens, but subject to Roman laws and taxes – could keep
local customs and religions as long as they followed Roman laws
Groups Today
What characteristics do we use to define different groups of people today?
1. popularity / status
2. money / job / where you live
3. appearance / race / culture / gender
4. etc.
Ancient Rome
What groups today resemble the social classes in ancient Rome and why?
OR
Do you see any key similarities/differences between this group today and in
ancient Rome?
Patricians
Celebrities / athletes, wealthy – get certain treatment/privileges
Senators
Politicians – paid today, but still have a lot of power
Equestrians
Plebeians
Slaves and Freemen
Soldiers
Women
People on the Frontier
Business World, CEOs, etc.
Middle/Working Class
Very poor – consider poverty
Non – citizens – illegal immigrants
How are soldiers perceived today?
Expansion of women’s rights – where are we today?
What other groups are treated differently though they are expected to
follow the same rules and laws? – think minority groups, youth?