History Flashcards
The Romans (41 cards)
When was Rome founded?
In the 8th century BC
Where was Rome founded?
In present day Italy, close to the River Tiber on seven hills.
Who was Aeneas?
A Trojan Prince who escaped from Troy after the Greeks had killed nearly all the inhabitants. He then went onto be the first in a long line of kings in the area around Rome.
What was the significance of Romulus and Remus to the Romans?
They were boys who were the last a line of kings called Romulus and Remus being left to die but then being looked after by a wolf. They went on to rule Rome.
Who was Rome named after?
Romulus
Who was Rome ruled by until the start of the Roman republic?
The Etruscans
What is a republic?
A country or city state that is not ruled by a king or queen
In which year did Rome become a republic?
509BC
Who became the dominant tribe in Rome at the start of the time of the start of Roman republic?
The Latins
Who attacked and destroyed much of Rome after defeating the Roman army in 387BC, with only the people on the Capitoline Hill surviving?
The Gauls
Who defeated Rome in 280BC and 279BC
Pyrrhus
What is a ‘Pyrrhic victory’?
When a winner’s losses are greater than their gains
By 264BC, where was Rome able to dominate and control?
Most of present day Italy
The Punic Wars were between Rome and which other power?
The Carthaginian Empire
Who was the general who invaded Italy and had success against the Romans (for example the Battle of Cannae in 216BC) during the Second Punic War?
Hannibal
What happened during the Third Punic War?
Carthage was destroyed
Who were the patricians?
More wealthy Roman citizens
Who were the plebians?
Poorer Roman citizens
What was a slave?
A human with no rights who could be bought and sold as property
What kind of people made up the Senate?
Rich men who were citizens – they were elected for life
Who were the consuls?
Two senators who were chosen by the Senate for one year – they suggested laws and commanded the army
What was the assembly?
A meeting where votes were held by Roman citizens
When did the Romans (under Julius Caesar) first try to invade Britain?
55BC
What does ‘crossing the Rubicon’ mean?
Passing the point of no return – it comes from when Caesar crossed the Rubicon River, which marked the boundary between Italy and Gaul
