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The Early History of Rome
Little is known about the early days of
Rome. But, like other peoples, the Romans
had legends about their past. One of those
legends describes the founding of Rome.
The legend tells of a princess in Italy
who had twin sons. They were named
Romulus- and Remus. The twins' uncle was
a king. He feared the boys would someday
overthrow him. The king ordered the babies
to be thrown into the Tiber River.
The gods took pity on the boys and
brought them safely to shore. A wolf cared
for the babies until they were found by
herders. When the twins grew up, they
killed their uncle. Then they built a city
beside the Tiber River where they had come
ashore. That city was Rome.
The Etruscans
About 600 B.C., a people called the
Etruscans conquered Rome. No one knows
where the Etruscans came from. They may
have come to Italy from Asia Minor.
For the next 100 years, Etruscan kings
ruled Rome. During that time, Rome grew
into a busy trading city.
The Etruscans taught the Romans to
build roads and sewers. They also taught the
Romans to use the arch in building. (An
arch is a curved structure that can support a
heavy weight.) The Romans used arches to
build stone bridges across the Tiber River.
Mr. Moore's Ancient Rome Handouts
The Romans built aqueducts to carry water from
mountain streams to their cities. This aqueduct still
stands in France. Notice that the Romans used
arches to support the weight of the aqueduct.
The Romans also borrowed their alphabet
from the Etruscans. (The Etruscans had
borrowed their alphabet from the Greeks.)
The Romans used the Etruscan alphabet to
write their own language, called Latin.
Today, the Roman alphabet is used to write
many languages, including English, French,
Spanish, and German,
The Greeks
Since about 750 B.C., the Greeks had been
building colonies in southern Italy. Through
trade, the Romans came into contact with the
Greeks.
The Romans learned to raise olives and
grapes from the Greeks. They copied Greek
drama, art, and architecture. They studied
Greek philosophy and science. And they
borrowed religious ideas and even gods from
the Greeks. Later, the Romans spread Greek
culture throughout Europe.
Looking Back
1. What happened to Rome about 600
B.C.?
2. What did the Romans learn from the
Etruscans?
3. What did the Romans borrow from the
Greeks?
10
Al■
The Early History of Rome
Little is known about the early days of
Rome. But, like other peoples, the Romans
had legends about their past. One of those
legends describes the founding of Rome.
The legend tells of a princess in Italy
who had twin sons. They were named
Romulus and Remus. The twins' uncle was
a king. He feared the boys would someday
overthrow him. The king ordered the babies
to be thrown into the Tiber River.
The gods took pity on the boys and
brought them safely to shore. A wolf cared
for the babies until they were found by
herders. When the twins grew up, they
killed their uncle. Then they built a city
beside the Tiber River where they had come
ashore. That city was Rome.
The Etruscans
About 600 B.C., a people called the
Etruscans conquered Rome. No one knows
where the Etruscans came from. They may
have come to Italy from Asia Minor.
For the next 100 years, Etruscan kings
ruled Rome. During that time, Rome grew
into a busy trading city.
The Etruscans taught the Romans to
build roads and sewers. They also taught the
Romans to use the arch in building. (An.....
arch is a curved structure that can support a
heavy weight.) The Romans used arches to
build stone bridges across the Tiber River.
Mr. Moore's Ancient Rome Handouts
The Romans built aqueducts to carry water from
mountain streams to their cities. This aqueduct still
stands in France. Notice that the Romans used
arches to support the weight of the aqueduct.
The Romans also borrowed their alphabet
from the Etruscans. (The Etruscans had
borrowed their alphabet from the Greeks.)
The Romans used the Etruscan alphabet to
write their own language, called Latin.
Today, the Roman alphabet is used to write
many languages, including English, French,
Spanish, and German,
The Greeks
Since about 750 B.C., the Greeks had been
building colonies in southern Italy. Through
trade, the Romans came into contact with the
Greeks.
The Romans learned to raise olives and
grapes from the Greeks. They copied Greek
drama, art, and architecture. They studied
Greek philosophy and science. And they
borrowed religious ideas and even gods from
the Greeks. Later, the Romans spread Greek
culture throughout Europe.
Looking Back
What happened to Rome about 600
B.C.?
2. What did the Romans learn from the
Etruscans?
3. What did the Romans borrow from the
Greeks?
I.
10
'*
The Roman Republic
You read that Etruscan kings ruled Home
for 100 years. In about 509 B.C. the Romans
rebelled against the Etruscans and drove them
from Rome.
The Romans no longer wished to be ruled
by kings. Instead, they set up a form of
government called a republic. In a republic,
people who have the right to vote elect their
leaders. Those leaders run the government
for the people.
The Roman Republic became an example
for later people, including the people who
founded the United States government.
Government in the Republic
The highest officials in the Roman
Republic were called consuls. The consuls
commanded (led) the Roman army. They
also made sure that taxes were collected and
laws were carried out. A consul held office
for only one year. That made it difficult for
any consul to grow too powerful.
Assemblies of citizens helped to rule
Rome. The most powerful assembly was the
Senate. It was made up of 300 people. The
Senate proposed laws. It also elected the
consuls and gave them advice.
Social Classes in Rome
There were two social classes in the
Roman Republic. The upper class was made
up of wealthy landowners called patricians.
The lower class was made up of farmers,
workers, and merchants. They were known
as plebeians.
The patricians controlled the government.
Only patricians could become consuls or
senators. Plebeians could not hold office.
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Plebeians Call for Reforms
Plebeians had to pay taxes. They had to
serve in the army. But they had little voice
in government. Beginning in the 400s B.C.,
plebeians began to call for reforms.
At first, the patricians refused to reform
the government. Then the plebeians took
action. They refused to serve in the army.
They even threatened to leave Rome and set
up their own city.
Those threats forced the patricians to
make changes in the government. The
plebeians won the right to elect officials
called tribunes. A tribune could veto, or
block, actions by any government official or
by the Senate. Tribunes used that power to
protect the rights of plebeians.
The plebeians also won the right to elect
their own assembly. It was called the
Assembly of Tribes. At first, the assembly
had little power. But later, it- passed laws for
all of Rome.
Looking Back
1. What were the duties of the consuls in
the republic? of the Senate?
2. What people made up the upper class of
Rome? the lower class?
-37—What---changes gave plebeians a greater
voice in government?
Mr. Moore's Ancient Rome Handouts
11
THE ROMAN REPUBLIC
In 500 B.C., Rome was just one of many small towns in Italy. But by 133 B.C., it had gained
control of all of Italy and had conquered foreign lands as well. Roman armies won victories in
Spain, Greece, Macedonia, Asia Minor, and North Africa.
There were several reasons for the success of the Romans. First, Rome was located in the
center of the Mediterranean world. This made it easy for its army and navy to move quickly in any
direction. Second, soldiers were courageous and well-trained, and battles were carefully planned
ahead of time by able generals. Also, the Romans had the ability to turn their defeated enemies
into friends. Eventually, conquered peoples accepted wise and capable Roman rule and the peace
that it brought.
The government in the early years of the Roman Republic had three branches — the consuls,
the Senate, and the Assembly. Each branch had various powers. Read the information on the
chart below, then answer the questions on the following pages.
3 Branches of Early Roman Government
I
2 consuls
Assembly I
I
(patricians and plebeians)
I
Senate
I
(patricians)
Separation of Powers Among the 3 Branches
2 consuls
Senate
Assembly
(1) oversaw the work of
other government
officials
(2) acted as judges
(3) directed the army in
wartime
(4) elected for a 1-year
term
(5) both consuls had
to agree before the
government could take
action
(6) in an emergency,
consuls could choose
a "dictator" — a single
powerful ruler to make
quick decisions
the
consuls chose the
(7)
senators
(1) held office for life
(2) were advisors to the
consuls and other
government officials
(3) could approve or
disapprove laws
passed by the
Assembly
(4) decided how money
should be spent
(5) made decisions
concerning relations
with foreign countries
(6) had influence over the
consuls and the army
(1) voted on laws
suggested by
government officials
(2) could declare war or
make peace treaties
(3) elected the 2 consuls
(4) elected government
officials
— 22A --
Chart Questions
(1)
(5)
CDP S Gil
Instead of a king, the Romans preferred having these at the head
of their government.
A "republic" is a type of government in which representatives of
the people make the laws. Was Rome a republic? (yes or nQ)
They were rich landowners who controlled the Senate. They also
had the most power in the Assembly.
They were the "common people" of Rome who belonged to the
Assembly, but had little real power in the government.
These people suggested laws for the Roman Republic.
The two consuls were elected by this group.
Rich, well-to-do citizens who often owned large tracts of land
were called "nobles." What is another name for these people?
Which two branches of government had a part in making the
laws?
(9)
(10)
Which branch controlled the spending of money?
Which branch decided whether or not Rome should go to war with
another country?
Thought Questions
(1) Before 509 B.C., Rome was ruled by a king. Then, the city established the Roman Republic
with power divided among three branches of government. Why do you think the Romans
preferred having a republic instead of a government ruled by a king?
(2) Which branch of government — the consuls, Senate, or Assembly — had the most power?
Exnin. , n your answer.
– 22B –
(3) In what two ways was the power of the two consuls limited?
(4) Why was a dictator chosen to head the government in times of emergency?
(5) The government of the United States has a president, Congress, and Supreme Court. Explain
one way that the American government is like the ancient Roman government, and one way
that it is different.
(6) When the Roman Republic was established in 509 B.C., power was in the hands of the wealthy
landowners — the patricians. The common people, or plebeians, had many complaints. They
had little voice in the government, and were treated unfairly under the law. Punishments were
often severe. They had to pay high interest rates on loans, and could not marry patricians.
Between 494 B.C. and 287 B.C., the plebeians struggled to gain equality with the patricians.
This period of time was known as the "Conflict of the Orders." The main reason equality was
finally achieved was that plebeians were needed for the army and navy. Why do you think this
forced the patricians to give plebeians the rights they demanded?
(7) In your opinion, what was the most important power of the consuls? the Senate?
the Assembly?
— 22C --
THE ROMAN REPUBLIC
In 500 B.C., Rome was just one of many small towns in Italy. But by 133 B.C., it had gained
control of all of Italy and had conquered foreign lands as well. Roman armies won victories in
Spain, Greece, Macedonia, Asia Minor, and North Africa.
There were several reasons for the success of the Romans. First, Rome was located in the
center of the Mediterranean world. This made it easy for its army and navy to move quickly in any
direction. Second, soldiers were courageous and well-trained, and battles were carefully planned
ahead of time by able generals. Also, the Romans had the ability to turn their defeated enemies
into friends. Eventually, conquered peoples accepted wise and capable Roman rule and the peace
that it brought.
The government in the early years of the Roman Republic had three branches — the consuls,
the Senate, and the Assembly. Each branch had various powers. Read the information on the
chart below, then answer the questions on the following pages.
3 Branches of Early Roman Government
I
Senate
2 consuls
I
I
I
(patricians)
Assembly
I
(patricians and plebeians)
Separation of Powers Among the 3 Branches
2 consuls
Senate
(1) oversaw the work of
other government
officials
(2) acted as judges
(3) directed the army in
wartime
(4) elected for a 1-year
term
(5) both consuls had
to agree before the
government could take
action
(6) in an emergency,
consuls could choose
"dictator" — a single
powerful ruler to make
quick decisions
(7) the consuls chose the
senators
(1) held office for life
(2) were advisors to the
consuls and other
government officials
(3) could approve or
disapprove laws
passed by the
Assembly
(4) decided how money
should be spent
(5) made decisions
concerning relations
with foreign countries
(6) had influence over the
consuls and the -a-Iffy
- 22A -
Assembly
(1) voted on laws
suggested by
government officials
(2) could declare war or
make peace treaties
elected
the 2 consuls
(3)
(4) elected government
officials
Chart Questions
(1)
Instead of a king, the Romans preferred having these at the head
of their government.
(2)
A "republic" is a type of government in which representatives of
the people make the laws. Was Rome a republic? (yes or no)
(3)
They were rich landowners who controlled the Senate. They also
had the most power in the Assembly.
(4)
They were the "common people" of Rome who belonged to the
Assembly, but had little real power in the government.
(5) __
(6)
These people suggested laws for the Roman Republic.
(7)
Rich, well-to-do citizens who often owned large tracts of land
were called "nobles." What is another name for these people?
(8) _
(9)
(10)
The two consuls were elected by this group.
Which two branches of government had a part in making the
laws?
Which branch controlled the spending of money?
Which branch decided whether or not Rome should go to war with
another country?
Thought Questions
(1) Before 509 B.C., Rome was ruled by a king. Then, the city established the Roman Republic
with power divided among three branches of government. Why do you think the Romans
preferred having a republic instead of a government ruled by a king?
(2) Which branch of government — the consuls, Senate, or Assembly — had the most power?
Exr,'', 'n your answer.
-- 22B –
NAME
ANCIENT ROME AND THE RISE OF CHRISTIANITY
Lucius: How can you speak to me like that? We've been
The Struggle for Equal Rights
The Italian peninsula juts out into the Mediterranean Sea at
its widest point. With its fertile lands, temperature, healthy
climate, and central location, Italy attracted many groups of
people, including the Greeks, who established Italian colonies in
the eighth century BC (800 BC). Here, we are concerned with the
people who are known to us as Romans, after the name of their
great capital city and empire. The ever-expanding Roman
territories later came to include all of Italy and finally the entire
Mediterranean region. The Romans built and empire that, at its
peak, was larger than that of Alexander the Great. It reached
from England in the north to Assyria in the east and included
present-day Spain, France, southern Europe, and much of the
Middle East.
Narrator: By the fourth century, the Roman republic was
ruled by a small group of persons, the patricians. There were the
wealthy landowning families. They controlled the senate (the law
making body) and the army. The majority of the people (the
plebeians) were citizens but they had few rights. The plebeians
included farmers, soldiers, skilled workers, merchants, and traders.
The plebeians had a political council, which tried to protect them
form the patricians' actions.
Narrator: Slaves were even worse off. Former prisoners of
war or plebeians imprisoned for debt, they farmed the patricians'
lands or worked as their house servants. Slaves were not citizens,
and they had no legal rights.
Narrator: In our story, Rome is in turmoil. The plebeians
have gone on strike to gain more rights. They refuse to work at
their jobs and do not report for military service. Here, two
Romans, a patrician and a plebian, argue about their differences:
Rome 367 BC
Lucius: Marcus, I have always thought of you as a
reasonable person. Don't you agree that, as loyal Roman .citizens,
you and the other plebeians should resume your duties?
Marcus: No, we will not! And we will not be satisfied until
we have destroyed your one-sided patrician government!
friends since childhood. Haven't I always treated you fairly?
Marcus: Yes, Lucius, we were friends once. But how can I
ever forget the enormous differences between us? You are a
wealthy landowning patrician. I am just a poor carpenter. I can
barely afford to free my family.
Lucius: But I've NEVER used my wealth to take advantage
of you.
Marcus: That's not true!You and the other patricians have
always taken advantage of people like me." You are one of the
300 members of the senate. Were any of you elected? Of course
not! You are a senator only because your family is a member of
the ruling class!
Lucius: Most of us in the senate have held important
government jobs, Marcus. Among the senators are former judges,
generals, and consuls. I myself have been head of a province.
What experience in government have you plebians had? Admit it:
we patricians know how to run Rome.
Marcus: I admit no such thing! We ordinary people don't
have your experience because all of the important government
jobs are closed to plebians. Lucius, this is supposed to be a
republic, not a government of the rich. We poor people deserve
the same rights and privileges as you rich people.
Lucius: What do YOUR people REALLY want, Marcus?
Marcus: We want justice. The laws written down years ago
are harsh. Many crimes are punished by death, and debtors are
treated severely. But the written law was a step forward because
people knew what was legal and what was not. The problem
Lucius, is that all the judges are patricians. And they favor their
own people.
Lucius: You don't need -plebiairjudgestecause 'Kornai -law
protects you. No Roman can be executed without a trial. And a
judge's sentence can be appealed to a higher court. A person
condemned to die can always go into exile (leave the country)
instead.
-
PAGE 6
ANCIENT ROME AND THE RISE OF CHRISTIANITY
Marcus: Lucius, as long as there are no plebian judges,
we plebeians will never be judged fairly. And Rome will
NAME
Questions:
Who had the power in the Roman Republic?
never have the loyalty of its plebian citizens so long as its
most important are closed to them.
Lucius: If you are granted these things, then will you
What was the main argument in this story?
resume your responsibilities?
Marcus: Not quite. We must also have plebeians in the
senate, and we want to be able to marry members of
patrician families.
a
Lucius: I understand your desire to be in the senate,
but marriage between people of different classes — that's not
Does this same problem occur in our government?
possible.
Marcus: Without the plebeians, Rome is not possible,
patrician wealth is not possible, and patrician privilege is not
possible. When you and the other patricians finally come to
understand that you cannot do without us, you will give us
the things we ask for. It may take time, but we plebeians
have little to lose and much to gain. We will wait, and we
will continue to withhold our services.
What do you think are some ways our government
could be improved?
Narrator: Marcus was right. The Roman patricians
could not do without the plebeian workers and soldiers. By
the end of the fourth century BC (400 BC), after many
years of struggle, the plebeians had achieved most of their
goals. Plebeians could hold all public offices, the actions of
the plebeians' assembly became law, and some marriages
between classes did take place. But the wealthy kept actual
control of the government.
PAGE 7
The Republic
The Citizens of Rome
Divided into 2 Classes ""••••••11+
TWO CONSULS
The MAGISTRATES
Women
Plebeians
Peasant farmers
and craftsmen
Patricians
Men who owned
large amounts of
land
Slaves
Citizens
Assembly
The two groups met here and voted for the
following groups
Two Consuls
They governed the
city. Elected for one
year only.
Both had to agree
with each other to
make a decision.
Magistrates
Their ,job was to look
after the money of
Rome. They were also
judges.
Tribunes
They protected the
ordinary people
against unfair
treatment.
Senate
Magistrates retired to the Senate. They gave advice to the Consuls. They ended up
control ling Rome.
READING: HANNIBAL OF CARTHAGE
I
During the- time when Rome was a republic, the city of-Carthage-in North Africa became a
rising power in the Mediterranean world. Carthage was located just 300 miles across the sea from
Rome. In between were the islands of Corsica, Sardinia, and Sicily, all controlled by Carthage.
Parts of Spain and much of North Africa were also ruled by Carthage.
,
Fighting eventually broke out between rtuine ant.] L•ctl (nage. After a long struggle that lasted
23 years, the two cities agreed to end what was called the First Punic War. In the peace treaty,
Rome was given Sicily. A short time later, Rome took Sardinia and Corsica away from Carthage.
To make up for losing those lands, the leaders of Carthage decided to expand their empire
in Spain. The army was led by an experienced and able general named Hamilcar Barca. Barca
had been a commander during the First Punic War, which left him with an undying hatred of the
Romans. When Barca made his plans for invading Spain, he decided to take with him his
- ath:
9-year-old son Hannibal. Just before leaving North Africa, he had his son take the following o
land.
I
will
us_ e
"I swear that so soon as age will permit, I will follow the Romans both at sea and on
fire and steel to arrest the destiny of Rome."
Years of fighting in Spanish territory helped Hannibal develop into a confident and respected
officer. At age 26, five years after his father died, the soldiers chose him to be their commander-inchief. Soon afterwards, Hannibal married a Spanish princess, then led his troops to victory against
several Spanish tribes. During one campaign, Hannibal attacked a city friendly to Rome. The
Romans responded by declaring war on Carthage. Thus began the Second Punic War.
Hannibal decided on a bold plan to defeat Rome. He would invade Italy and fight the enemy
on their own soil. His plan called for taking foot soldiers and cavalry from Spain across southern
Gaul and over the towering Alps to northern Italy. It would be one of history's most daring marches.
Just before leaving for Italy, Hannibal put his brother Hasdrubal in charge of an army to protect
Carthage's lands in Africa and Spain. Hannibal began his journey with about 40,000 soldiers and
horsemen, plus 38 war elephants. The army marched through Gaul until it came to the Rhone
River. Using boats taken from local tribesmen, and earth-covered rafts for the elephants, the river
was crossed and the expedition continued.
The determined army pushed on for several months, finally reaching the Alps north of Italy.
It was October, and early snows had made the narrow mountain passes slippery and dangerous.
Both soldiers and animals occasionally lost their footing along the steep mountainsides and
tumbled to their deaths. Blinding snowstorms added to the misery. To make matters worse,
unfriendly tribesmen in the area rolled heavy stones down upon the marchers causing more men
and animals to lose their balance and fall. Baggage animals and troops at the rear of the army
were favorite targets of the enemy. At one point a landslide blocked the path of the marchers.
Cold, hunger, and exhaustion brought death to many soldiers, horses, and elephants. The
elephants were used to the warm climate of Africa and Spain, and suffered terribly from the
extreme mountain temperatures.
•
Finally, 20,000 weary foot soldiers and 6,000 cavalry came down from the Alps onto the plains
of northern Italy. Almost half of the army and nearly all of the war elephants had perished in the
mountains. Yet Hannibal's loyal army continued to follow its relentless commander.
— 23A —
The valiant men of Carthage soon won two key battles against Roman forces under
General Scipio. These victories encouraged Gauls and Celtics to join the fighting on their side.
Strengthened by reinforcements, Hannibal outmaneuvered two Roman armies and won another
smashing victory. In this battle, thousands of Romans were killed and many others drowned in a
nearby lake. An additional 4,000 Roman cavalrymen who approached the battlefield were also
destroyed. It was one of proud Rome's worst defeats ever.
About a year later, Hannibal's troops and cavalry captured the huge Roman supply depot at
Cannae. Carthage's great victory at Cannae came after Hannibal tricked a large Roman army
numbering nearly 100,000. Hannibal positioned his out-numbered soldiers in a long line, then
ordered the center of the line to retreat. The Romans, who thought the enemy was falling back
in defeat, advanced into the middle. Hannibal then had the ends of his battle line move quickly
around to the rear of the Roman army. The Romans were surrounded. About 50,000 were killed,
including former consuls, senators, nobles, and other leading citizens.
Following their stunning defeat at Cannae, the Romans avoided any major battles in the
years ahead. They were afraid to risk open warfare with Hannibal. Their strategy succeeded
because as time went on, Hannibal's army grew weaker. It became increasingly difficult for
him to find adequate supplies. And Carthage had no navy to back up its land operations. Also,
Italian provinces which had previously been taken over by Rome did not join Hannibal's side
in the hoped for numbers. Worst of all, badly needed reinforcements led by Hannibal's brother
Hasdrubal failed to reach him. They were defeated in northern Italy after crossing the Alps.
Hannibal learned of his brother's defeat when Hasdrubal's head was thrown into his camp.
After 15 years on the Italian peninsula, Hannibal was forced to return to Carthage. He had
won many victories, but had not won the war. Carthage was now under attack by the troops of
Scipio. The city soon fell and 20,000 defenders were lost. But Hannibal managed to escape.
•
The remaining years of Hannibal's life were spent helping several Mediterranean kingdoms
fight the growing power_of Rome. In one memorable sea battle, his men threw kettles of snakes
onto the decks of Roman ships. Eventually, however, he was tracked down. But instead of
surrendering, he chose to die by swallowing poison that he kept secretly in a ring. This act ended
at age 64 the brilliant career of a military genius. Hannibal ranks alongside Alexander the Great,
Julius Caesar, and Napoleon as one of the greatest commanders in the history of the world.
— 23B —
Conquest and Expansion
In the 400s B.C., Rome began a long period of
conquest and expansion (growth). The Romans first
conquered their neighbors in central Italy. Then they
conquered the Etruscans to the north.
By about 270 B.C., the Romans had conquered the
Greek city-states of southern Italy. They now
controlled most of the Italian Peninsula.
The Roman Army
Rome's success on the battlefield was due to its
powerful army. The Romans built the mightiest army
of their time. They divided their army into groups
called legions. A legion had about 6000 soldiers. Each
legion was divided into smaller units of 60 to 120
soldiers.
In battle, the Romans moved their small units
quickly to wherever they were needed. That gave
them an advantage over enemies who fought in
phalanxes. (You read that phalanxes were groups of
soldiers who fought in tight blocks.) Phalanxes were
larger, slower, and harder to maneuver.
War with Carthage
Rome's main rival in the Mediterranean was the city
of Carthage in North Africa. You read that the
Phoenicians founded a colony at Carthage around 800
B.C. In time, Carthage became an independent
city-state.
Carthage built an empire that included parts of
Spain, North Africa, and the island of Sicily.
In 264 B.C. Rome and Carthage began a series of
wars called the Punic Wars. The First Punic War
lasted for 23 years. The Romans defeated the
Carthagenians _and won control of Sicily. With Sicily,
Rome had its first overseas territory and the beginning
of an empire.
Hannibal and the Second Punic War
The Second Punic War began in 218 B.C.
In that year, Carthage's greatest general
invaded Italy. His name was Hannibal.
Hannibal surprised the Romans by
invading Italy from the north. He first
landed an army of 50,000 soldiers and 37
elephants in Spain. Then he marched across
Spain and France, over the Alps, and into
Italy.
Hannibal defeated several Roman armies
in Italy. But he was not able to capture
Rome. In 204 B.C., a Roman army landed in
North Africa and threatened Carthage.
Hannibal was forced to leave Italy to defend
his homeland.
The Defeat of Carthage
The Romans defeated Hannibal at Zama, a
town near Carthage. In the treaty that
ended the war, the Romans forced Carthage
to give up Spain.
In 149 B.C. Rome and Carthage began the
Third Punic War. After three years of
fighting, the Romans captured Carthage.
They destroyed the city. Carthage's territory
in North Africa now belonged to Rome.
Rome's Empire Grows
During the years of the Punic Wars, Rome
also expanded to the east. The Romans
conquered Macedonia, Greece, and Asia
Minor. Syria and Egypt came under Roman
control.
By 130 B.C., Rome ruled most of the
Mediterranean world. Romans now called
the Mediterranean Mare Nostrum. In Latin,
that means "Our Sea."
Looking Back
1. Why was the Roman army successful?
2. What were the Punic Wars?
3. Describe Hannibal's invasion of Italy.
12
Thought Questions
(1) Do you think that Hannibal lived up to the oath he took at age 9? Explain.
(2) Was Hannibal's bold plan to invade Italy a good idea or a bad idea? Give a reason for your
answer.
•
1-
(3) Whv (in you think soldiers in ancient times were willing to spend their lives waging war?
(4) If you had been faced with the decision of joining either the army of Carthage or the army of
Rome at the beginning of the Second Punic War, which one would you have chosen? Why?
(5) Why can it be said that Hannibal "won many battles but lost the war"? Does this mean that
Hannibal was a failure?
(6) In your opinion, what were the three most important qualities or abilities that made Hannibal
one of history's greatest generals?----
•
— 23C —
Rome Quiz: Punic Wars
Name:
Ms. Orville
Date:
1. Who was Hannibal?
Define:
2. Patrician3. Plebeian-
4. How many Punic Wars were there?
5. Which two empires fought against each other in the Punic Wars?
&
6. Who won the Punic Wars?
7. What was the result of the first Punic War?
8. What was one result of the Punic Wars?
9. Who lost the second Punic War and what was the primary cause?
10. Where was Carthage located?
TO TELL THE TRUTH: JULIUS CAESAR
Three students will be chosen to pretend they are Julius Caesar.
They will stand next to each otherin the front of the room facing the
class. During the game, the three will be asked questions by other
students in class. The questions will be about Julius Caesar's life.
Thirteen other students will be chosen to ask one question each
during the game. They will be assigned a number from 1 to 13. This is
the number of the question they will ask when the game begins.
After every question, the three Julius Caesars will each give an
answer. "Number 1" will always answer first, "Number 2" second, and
"Number 3" third. Only one of the three is really Julius Caesar. The real one will always tell the
truth when answering questions. The other two will only tell the truth once in awhile. After all
questions have been asked, class members will vote for the person they think is the real Julius
Caesar.
This game will be played like a television game show. The teacher will be the "MC," or Master
of Ceremonies. The people who ask questions are the "panelists."
MC: Now let us meet Julius Caesar. Number 1, what is your name please?
Number 1: My name is Julius Caesar.
Ifiber 2?
Number 2: My name is Julius Caesar.
Number a: My name is Julius Caesar.
MG: And here is Julius Caesar's story. He says, "I, Julius Caesar, was born in Italy in 100 B.C. As
a young man, I decided to make politics my career. It soon became apparent that a person
had to have military power in order to rise to a high position in the government. And so I led
Roman armies to great victories in foreign lands. I earned the reputation of a military genius
and became a hero to the citizens of Rome. Yet some people, especially members of the
Senate, were jealous and fearful of my power. But the remainder of Rome's citizens gave me
the title of dictator. People today regard me as one of the greatest figures in the history of the
world." Signed, "Julius Caesar." We will start the questioning with Panelist 1.
Panelist 1: In what city were you born and raised?
Number 1: I was born in Venice, a city in northern Italy. My family moved to Rome when I was a
teenager. At first I didn't like living in a large city, but eventually got used to it.
Number 2: I was born and raised in Rome, Italy.
Number 3: I was lucky to have been born in Rome. Rome was the most important city on the
Italian peninsula. Being from this city made it easier for me to get involved in politics and
later gain an important position in the army.
•
Panelist 2: Could you tell us a few things about your family and the kind of education you received
as a boy?
Number 1: My parents had nine children, with me being the youngest. Since I later became a
great leader, this led to the expression "saving the best 'til last." As for schooling, my parents
sent me to Florence where I was tutored by the famous scholar Aristotle.
— 24A —
Number 2: Besides myself and my mother and father, there was only one other family member,
a sister. We were well-to-do aristocrats. Unfortunately, my father died when I was fifteen,
leaving mother alone to raise two kids. She saw to it that I received a good education and
continued to influence my lite, for many years to come.
Number 3: I was an only child, whic
h
my parents to spoil me somewhat. They gave me a lot
of attention and, made me feel important. I wanted to keep that feeling. One reason I got
involved in the government and the army was that being a leader made others think highly of
me. I enjoyed the spotlight of success.
Panelist 3: We know that you were always interested in public affairs. Your secret for gaining
power in the government was to do things for people that would win their approval. On one
occasion, as director of public works and games, you spent so much money to please the
people that the government went into debt. In time, you and two other men became the
leaders of Rome. How did you, wealthy Marcus Crassus, and the great general Pompey
manage to become the leaders of the Roman government?
Number 1: We were elected as consuls by the Roman Assembly.
Number 2: We came to power by means of violence and bribery.
Number 3: The citizens of Rome wanted us to head the government. Marcus Crassus was the
richest man in Italy, General Pompey was a military hero, and I was a young and very popular
politician. People were sure we would lead Rome to a position of greatness among the
nations of the world.
Panelist 4: Although you were one of the three rulers of Rome, you longed for even more power.
You hoped someday to become the only leader of the Roman government. One way to
strengthen yourself politically was to win great victories on the battlefield. In this way, you
could make a triumphant return to Rome and seize power. Where did your armies eventually
win battles which proved to all that you were a military genius?
Number 1: My troops were successful in Greece and Asia Minor.
Number 2: Forces commanded by me won victories in Gaul, now known as France, and also in
Britain. We lost just two battles in nine years.
Number 3: My armies conquered Spain, Greece, Turkey, and parts of North Africa. We never lost
a battle. The enemy was no match for the well-disciplined Roman soldiers. Our men were
better trained and carried newer weapons of war.
Panelist 5: Roman soldiers were risking their lives fighting wars for you. How was it possible to
raise the large numbers of men needed to win great battles in distant lands?
Number 1: Males over 18 years of age were drafted into the armed forces. A general, with the
approval of the Roman Senate, could organize an army to capture foreign lands and increase
Rome's power and wealth.
Number 2: It was common for generals to promise their soldiers money and pensions, and to let
them have anything they might gather up in conquered lands.
Number 3: The people of Italy respected me and were confident I would succeed in whatever I did.
Men joined my armies because they were certain I would lead them to glorious victories and
lasting fame. They would be heroes to their countrymen back home.
•
Panelist 6: How did you finally become the dictator of Rome?
Number 1: Because of my triumphs on the battlefield, citizens welcomed me back to Rome with
open arms. In an emotional celebration, they demanded that I become the one and only
leader of the land.
— 24B —
The End of the Republic
The conquest, of an empire changed
Rome. Riches from conquered lands poured
into the city. But only a few Romans became
wealthy. Many Romans suffered during the
years of conquest.
Roman workers were one of the groups
that suffered. Thousands of slaves from
conquered lands were sent to Rome. Slaves
did most of the work once done by Roman
workers. Some Romans were forced to beg to
survive.
Farmers also suffered. Huge amounts of
grain were brought to Rome from conquered
lands. As a result, the price of grain fell.
Roman farmers could no longer make a living
by selling their grain. Many farmers lost their
farms.
Farmers looking for work crowded into
Rome. But Rome had no work for them.
Julius Caesar
Roman workers and farmers turned to the
government for help. But the government
was controlled by wealthy Romans. It did
little to help the poor. Rome was soon deeply
divided between the rich and the poor.
For over 100 years, the city was torn by
riots, rebellions, and civil wars. (A civil war
is a war fought between groups who live in
the same country.)
In 49 B.C., a general named Julius
Caesar came to power in Rome. The Senate
made Caesar dictator, or absolute ruler, of
Rome. Caesar used his power to help the
poor. He gave farms to Romans who had lost
their land. He also created jobs for the poor.
Julius Caesar was popular with many
Romans. But some senators resented
Caesar's growing power. They feared Caesar
would make himself king. In 44 B.C., a group
of senators assassinated Caesar.
Julius Caesar was a successful general and a great
speaker and writer. In 59 B.C, he was elected "consul of
Rome, Later, the Senate made him dictator- or absolute
ruler, for life.
Caesar Augustus
After Caesar's death, Ronie was again
torn by civil war. The struggle for power was
won by Caesar's adopted son. His name was
Octavian.
In 27 B.C., the Senate made Octavian
consul, tribune, and military leader for life.
It gave him the title Augustus, which meant
"honored." After that, Octavian was known
as Caesar Augustus.
Under Augustus, the Roman Republic
came to an end. The Senate continued to
meet. But it had little real power. Augustus
was the sole ruler of Rome.
Looking Back
1. Why did many Roman workers suffer
during the years of conquest?
2. Why did farmers suffer?
3. How did Julius Caesar help the poor?
4. What happened to the republic under
Augustus?
Mr. Moore's Ancient Rome Handouts
13
The Rule of Augustus
The Romans held games and contests in a huge outdoor
stadium called the Coliseum, It held about 50,000 people.
The wins of the Coliseum still stand in Rome
Caesar Augustus came to power in Rome in
27 B.C. By then, Rome controlled a huge empire.
The rule of Augustus began a long period of
peace and prosperity in the empire. That period
is called the Pax Romano, or "Roman Peace."
Around A.D. 180, the Pax Romana came to an
end. For nearly 300 years, civil wars and
invasions weakened the empire. Then, in A.D.
476, the Roman Empire fell.
• How was Rome ruled during the Pax
Romana?
• What was life like in Rome during that
time?
• What caused the fall of the Roman
Empire?
• What contributions did the Romans make
to Western civilization?
You will be using these words in
Key Words
this chapter.
emperor
public
treason
patriotism
Historians call Augustus the first Roman
emperor. (An emperor is the absolute ruler
of an empire.) He ruled the Roman Empire
for 41 years.
Augustus was a wise and able (skillful)
ruler. He improved living conditions in
Rome. Fires often destroyed large sections of
the city. Augustus set up a fire brigade
(group) to fight fires. He also set up a police
force to protect Romans from criminals.
Augustus built new theaters and other
public buildings in Rome. Many of those
buildings were made of marble. (Marble is a
beautiful stone often used in building.)
"I found Rome built of bricks," Augustus
said, "I leave it clothed in marble."
Peace and Good Government
Augustus brought peace to the empire.
He placed Roman legions on the empire's
borders. The legions stopped rebellions and
kept out invaders.
Augustus also improved government in
the empire. He chose good officials to run
the provinces, or conquered territories- He
paid the officials well so that they would
not be tempted to steal government funds.
The emperor also encouraged trade. He
cleared the Mediterranean Sea of pirates.
He built good roads linking distant cities to
Rome. And he had coins made that could be
used anywhere in the empire.
Looking Back
1. How did Augustus improve living
conditions in Rome?
2. How did he bring peace to the empire?
3. How did he improve government in the
empire?
Mr. Moore's Ancient Rome Handouts
14
Science and Achievements
Legacies of the Ancient Romans
The Ancient Romans were a practical people able to adopt and adapt ideas to suit their needs. Since
their main goal was expansion, they mastered the shills necessin y foi building and governing a Vati ►
empire. Part of their lasting legacy to the modern world is embodied by their achievements in many
diverse areas.
Designing and Building Great Cities—In places such as Gaul (France) and Britain, there were no
organized towns. The Romans encouraged them to build cities in the Roman fashion. Roman towns
were made up of networks of streets and blocks. The different blocks contained residential houses,
stores, workshops, and bars or saloons. The blocks toward the center of the town were reserved for
magnificent public buildings and the open forum, or marketplace, where people could gather to conduct
business and discuss local events.
The forum often contained the main temple dedicated to the Roman gods. Around town were other
temples dedicated to local gods or other local religions. Public buildings included the bath house and
public fountain. Near the open forum was the basilica, or town hall, where meetings could take place.
Other structures in a Roman town included theaters, stadiums, and racetracks.
Science and Achievements
Legacies of the Ancient Romans
Master Road Builders—To unite
their vast empire, the Romans built
over 50,000 miles of roads. These
roads helped to improve trade and
communication throughout the Roman
Empire. Many of these roads were
paved with layers of stone and
concrete. The roads were usually very
straight, with a slight hump in the
middle so water would drain down the
sides into shallow ditches. Roman
roads show advanced engineering
skills. The Appian Way, constructed
in 312 B.C., is still used today by
tourists and local residents.
Architecture—Other examples of fine
engineering and skillful building are
''und in the public works of Ancient
_ome. Romans perfected the
Etruscan arch and combined it with
Greek architectural elements such as
columns and triangular pediments.
These design elements, along with a
new building material called concrete,
enabled the Romans to create
elaborate cities with beautiful temples,
coliseums, stadiums, theaters, bridges,
and domed buildings.
Plumbing—The Romans were also
master plumbers. They designed and
built complicated water-supply
systems to bring fresh water into their
cities. This was done through a series
of special channels called aqueducts.
Drains and pipelines were constructed
to carry rainwater and sewage away
from the cities. Most plumbing was
made from lead pipes and worked
3cause of gravity. Examples of
plumbing systems in bathhouses,
public fountains, and household sinks
and toilets can still be observed to this
day.
,cont,
Science and Achievements
Legacies of the Ancient Romans
Legal Administration—In order to
govern their vast empire, it was
important for the Romans to develop and
enforce consistent systems of laws and
justice. The Romans created
professional lawyers, judges, courts, and
rules of conduct within the legal system.
Laws were first publicized on the Twelve
Tables in 450 B.C. Later, as the Roman
Empire grew, the laws were codified in a
series of written volumes. Roman law
helped to civilize the world, because
wherever the Romans conquered, they
took their legal concepts with them.
Time and Money—The Romans were
great organizers who insisted on
accuracy in all things. Our calendars
today are based on Julius Caesar's
calendar and Latin. Although sundials
were invented by the Egyptians and
improved by the Greeks, it was the
Romans who used them extensively
throughout their Empire to record time.
It was also the Romans who designed the
format of coins with a head on one side
and a national symbol on the other.
Entertainment and the Arts—Modernday racetracks and circuses date to
Ancient Rome. In grand stadiums and
arenas, gladiators and animals fought in
bloody combat, while chariots raced for
the glory of their homeland. Roman art
is still considered some of the finest in
the world. The Roman quest for lifelike
sculpture and painting was adapted from
the Greeks. Such famous Italian artists
as Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci
used Greco-Roman works as their
inspiration. Many Roman works of
literature survive today. They are fine
examples of creativity and writing skill,
and they tell us a great deal about daily
life in Ancient Rome.
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Roman Engineers
Roman Road
The Greeks were great scientists. The Romans were great engineers. All over Italy
and the Empire they built roads, aqueducts, walls of fortification and large buildings
like the Colosseum, the Circus Maximus and the Theater of Marcellus.
In many parts of the world, Roman roads are still used today. In ancient times Roman
roads ran for almost fifty thousand miles (80,500 km). Nineteen great roads ran into
Rome itself .
The Romans built their roads like walls. They were about fifteen feet (4.5 m) wide
and three feet (.9 m) high. The first step in building a road was to dig out the width
and depth of the road. The first layer was rubble. Next, a layer of slabs set in mortar
or a layer of concrete was put in. Then a layer of concrete and stones was laid in.
The top layer was of hard stones or blocks of lava. These were fitted so closely that
there were no cracks or seams. There were gutters at the sides so rain would run off.
The entire road had curbstones on each side. Also on each side were footpaths. Sometimes
there were blocks of stones set along the road at various spots for riders to mount
or dismount.
These excellently constructed roads were usually built under the supervision of Roman
engineers. The actual work was done by Roman soldiers. In Italy the state paid for their
construction, but in the conquered provinces the people of the province paid.
Equally as well built as the Roman road was the Roman aqueduct. (An aqueduct is
a conduit for carrying a large quantity of flowing water.) The Romans believed in having
large supplies of fresh water, and they worked hard to provide it. The first great aqueduct
was the Aqua Appia, which covered eleven miles (17.7 km). It ran for three hundred
feet (90 m) above ground and eight hundred feet (240 m) underground.
In 140 B.C., the first high-level aqueduct was built to bring water to the top of the
Capitoline Hill. Eventually, eleven great aqueducts served Rome.
The great channels of the aqueducts were constructed of masonry and were built
at a slanting position so the water ran right into Rome into great reservoirs. Street mains
ran from the reservoir. Water was carried into the houses by pipes.
Anything Roman engineers constructed was built to last a long time. Like their roads
and aqueducts, Roman walls were also well constructed. These great fortifications were
built to keep barbaric tribes out of the Roman Empire. These walls were built in Germany
and Romania and Britain. The most famous one was Hadrian's Wall, built in the northern
part of England from A.D. 122-128. It ran from the mouth of the Tyne River to Solway
Firth, a distance of about seventy-seven miles (123.9 km). There are different opinions
concerning its width and height. It was either twenty feet (6 m) thick at the base and
twelve feet (3.6 m) high or ten feet (3 m) at the base and twenty feet (6 m) high.
It was constructed of stone for half of its length. The remainder was built of turf and
stone. Towered forts were constructed at one-mile (1.61 km) intervals along the wall.
There were also smaller towers set every one-third of a mile (.5 km). A great ditch was
dug in front of and behind the wall.
Roman architects and engineers not only constructed roads, aqueducts and great walls,
but they also built massive buildings. They were the first people to use concrete for
building material. They also developed the Roman arch with its keystone, an expansion
of the Etruscan arch.
Roman engineers and architects were able to provide massive public buildings for
the emperors of Rome. Trajan ordered a forum and a great column built. Augustus
practically restored Rome. Other emperors ordered other massive buildings, towers, etc.,
to be constructed.
luestions
. The Romans were great
or
. The top layer of a Roman road was made of
An aqueduct is
t. The first high-level aqueduct was built in
was built in the northern part of England.
3. The Romans were the first people to use
to build huge buildings.
Activities
1. You are a Roman engineer and must sketch out the plan for a road. Make a separate
sketch for each of the four layers. On each page describe the materials you will use
and the width and height of your road.
2. Purchase a quantity of clay from an art store and make a model of a Roman road.
You can roll small pea-sized pieces for the rubble. Make large flat sections for concrete,
and form blocks of clay for the top layer. Put clay drainage ditches on each side
of the road.
3. Study several pictures of Roman aqueducts, and then make a black and white sketch
of an aqueduct on poster board.
Tools Used by Roman Builders
PICK READ
HAMMER
HEAD
MASON'S SQUARE
Roman Aqueducts.
The Romans were great builders and the mighty Roman Towns needed a mighty
water supply to keep the people clean and to drink. Rome itself used vast quantities of
water. Ten great aqueducts with a total length of five hundred kilometres brought
enough water for the million inhabitants to use an average of one thousand litres a day
each!! Most of the water was used in
public baths, for the ordinary citizens
and the private baths of the rich. The
water supply and drainage did not go
to the upper floors of the houses so
1- A.-It A A.,-It..11 -4.;
dirty water (and waste!) was emptied
•
from the windows into the street.
Strangers from distant parts of the
Empire always admired two things
above all in the Roman towns: the
water supply and the drains. The
Romans were very skilled builders and
The Roman Aqueduct at Nimes, France.
engineers, although they worked in
Built in the 1 st Century A.D.
stone, brick and concrete where as we
now use iron and steel as well. The water mains or AQUEDUCTS (Ague—water,
Duct—carry) were often many miles long from clean water sources away from the
towns. The water flowed in a pipe that was very nearly level (the pipe would drop 24
feet in every mile). Where the land dipped sharply the water pipe would be carried on
a bridge with many arches, many of which still survive in Europe.
The story was somewhat different on Roman Britain, where aqueducts were not
needed as water could be found almost anywhere in rivers or wells. But in the long
dry summers of Spain and Italy it must have seemed like a miracle to have clean, cool
and fresh water flowing out at public fountains and taps. It was even laid on onto
private houses in the towns, much as ours is today.
Questions.
1. Put the title; Roman Aqueducts.
2. What is an Aqueduct?
3. What two things did visitors to Roman towns admire?
4. How many Aqueducts supplied the city of Rome?
5. What was most of Rome's water used for?
6. How old is the aqueduct at Nimes?
7. Why did the Romans need to build Aqueducts?
8. What do these Aqueducts tell you about the Romans skill at building?
9. Why was dirty water poured out into the street?
10. Why is there less evidence of Aqueducts in Britain than in France, Spain or
Italy?
11. What do Aqueducts tell you about the Romans' attitude towards their health?