Ancient Rome Flashcards
(34 cards)
Where is Rome located?
Located in the center of the Italian peninsula, protected by the Alps in the north and the Mediterranean Sea to the west, east, and south.
What geographical features supported agriculture and trade in Rome?
Good harbors, fertile fields, river valleys, and a mild climate.
Along which river did Rome grow as a city-state?
Tiber River.
What type of belief system did Roman mythology follow?
Polytheistic beliefs.
What was the role of mythology in Roman culture?
To explain natural phenomena, human qualities, and life events; integral to culture, politics, and art.
Name the Roman god associated with war.
Mars.
What is the significance of the year 509 BCE in Roman history?
Romans drove out the Etruscans and created a Republic.
Define a Republic in the context of Roman government.
A government structure where some officials are chosen by the people to prevent individuals from gaining too much power.
What were the two main social classes in the Roman Republic?
Patricians and Plebeians.
Who were the Patricians in Roman society?
Landed elite, powerful nobility, about 5-10% of the population.
Who were the Plebeians in Roman society?
Farmers, artisans, and merchants; majority of the population with very little power.
What was the significance of the 12 Tables?
The first written Roman law created in 450 BCE, clarifying laws for all classes.
What was the Senate in the Roman Republic?
The most powerful body of the Republic, composed of about 300 members, serving for life.
What was the role of Consuls in the Roman Republic?
Chief executives responsible for commanding armies and directing the government.
What were the Punic Wars?
A series of three wars between Rome and Carthage from 264-146 BCE, competing for trade and territory.
What was the outcome of the 1st Punic War?
Rome defeated Carthage and gained control of Sicily and Sardinia.
Who was Hannibal?
A Carthaginian general known for leading an army with elephants during the 2nd Punic War.
What happened during the 3rd Punic War?
Rome attacked and completely destroyed Carthage.
What does imperialism mean in the context of Rome?
Domination over foreign lands and people.
What were the main causes for the decline of the Roman Republic?
- Use of slavery in agriculture
- Migration of farmers to cities
- Inflation and weak economy
- Civil war over power.
What was the Triumvirate?
A group of three rulers that included Julius Caesar.
What was Julius Caesar’s fate?
Assassinated by 60 senators on the Ides of March.
Who was Augustus Caesar?
The first Roman Emperor, originally named Octavian, who established the Roman Empire in 27 BCE.
What is the Pax Romana?
A 200-year period of peace and stability in the Roman Empire, starting with Augustus’ reign.
