History-Rome Flashcards
(42 cards)
What did the Han Empire have in common with the Roman Empire?
- Their empires lasted for centuries
- Had great success in establishing centralized control over their
empire. - The were able to maintain their law and political institutions,
technical skills and languages.
Who were the first Romans and where did they establish themselves?
Romans were a group of Latin-speaking people who established a community at Latium in central Italy. They went on to conquer all of Italy and the entire Mediterranean world.
Who was Horatius?
A legendary Roman hero who was a guard at a bridge that was a weak point in Roman defenses. The bridge was over the Tiber River. When the Etruscans attacked, he stood alone and defened the bridge (others ran away). This confused the attackers long enough for the Roman soldiers to come and bring down the bridge. When he heard the bridge crash down he dove into the water and saw to safety. Rome had been saved by the courageous act of one Roman who knew his duty and was determined to carry it out. Courage, duty and determination-the qualities that served many Romans who believed it was their divine mission to rule nations and peoples.
How did geography impact Rome?
Mountains were less rugged than those surrounding Greece so it was not divided into small isolated communities. They also possessed more productive agricultural land than Greece which enabled it to support a large population.
Rome had access to the sea but was far enough inland to be safe from pirates.
It was built on 7 hills and was easily defended.
It was a natural crossing point for north-south traffic.It had a good central location from which to expand. Central location made governing much easier.
According to legend, who founded Rome and when?
Twin brothers Romulus and Remus in 753bc.
What type of people were early Romans?
Early Romans were pastoral people who spoke Latin. Early Romans were under control of 7 kings (two of which were Etrucans who left their mark) Rome began as a pastoral community but ended up a city.
Under Etruscan influence, what did Rome accomplish?
They had an outstanding building program and they constructed the first roadbed for the chief road through Rome. They oversaw development of temples, markets, shops,streets and houses.
What was the name of the first, main road through Rome?
The Sacred Way
Who was one of the chief ancient sources for the history of early Rome?
Livy
How did Livy use his stories to teach Romans?
He wanted to tech moral value and virtues such as tenacity duty courage and especially discipline
What gave Rome considerable control over a large part of Italy?
The conquest of the Samnites also brought them into direct contact with Greek communities
What influence did the Greeks have on Rome?
- cultivated the olive and the vine
* provided artistic and cultural models through sculpture architecture and literature
What system did Rome devise to rule Italy?
The Roman Confederation
What was the Roman Confederation?
Rome allowed some people to have full Roman citizenship (Latins)
The remaining communities were made allies and were free to run their own local affairs but were required to provide soldiers for Rome. Loyal allies could improve their status and become Roman citizens.
Why did the Roman Confederation work?
Romans found a way to give conquered people a stake in Rome’s success.
What helped explain Rome’s success?
Although opportunistic, once embarked on a course of expansion, Rome pursued consistent policies. They were superb diplomats
What are some characteristics of Roman’s that made them successful?
- Excelled at making correct diplomatic decisions
- rebellion crushed without mercy
- shrewd in extending their citizenship
- good persistent soldiers
- practical sense of strategy (as they conquered they settled)
- by insisting on military service from its allies, they mobilized the entire military might of all Italy for its wars
Who were the chief executive officers of the Roman Republic?
the consuls and praetors
Who were the consuls?
two, chosen annually administered the government and lead roman army into battle
they possessed “imperium” which was “the right to command”
Who were the praetors?
Praetors primary function was execution of justice
he also possessed imperium and could govern rome of the consuls were away from the city
he was in charge of civil law
Why was another praetor added in 242?
Rome’s growth caused them to add another praetor to judge cases in which one or both people were non citizens
Who else had special duties in Rome?
a number of administrative officials such as administrators of financial affairs and supervisors of public games
What was the Roman Senate?
- senate or counsel of elders,was a select group, 300 men, served for life
- they could only advise magistrates but their advice was taken seriously
- the force of law
What was the centuriate assembly
most important assembly
it was the Roman army functioning in a political role
it organized classes based on wealth and wealthy citizens always had the majority
they elected chief magistrates and passed laws
