September 2021 Flashcards
Who was the “founder” of Rome? What was his story?
Romulus, descendant of a god, raised by a she-wolf, and killed his brother, Remus, to rule Rome by himself
What expectation did the founding myth set up for Rome?
That is was destined for greatness
What was Cincinnatus the “ideal” dictator?
He gave up his power when the job was done.
What territory did Rome acquire during its first period of expansion?
The Italian Peninsula and some of the island of Sicily.
What series of events put “Rome on the map” during its second period of expansion?
Punic Wars with Carthage
Why was Julius Ceaser assassinated?
Made enemies with the Senate and was feared that he was setting up a dynasty with Cleopatra
Who was Augustus Ceaser and what changes did he make?
Julius’s grand nephew and adopted son. Established rule as emperor but kept the status of the Senate.
How do we separate the two periods of Roman History and which was more efficient?
Republic vs Empire. Benevolent dictatorship was the most efficient.
What was the Pax Romana and how long did it last?
The Roman Peace and two centuries.
What was the problem of succession in the first century?
Power passed within the Julian Dynasty and didn’t always go to capable men.
What was the solution of succession in the first century?
Emperors adopted talented men to become their successors and train them
What was the big problem of the third century?
Wars and barbarian invasions overloaded the Roman economy.
What was the system of choosing an emperor after the second century?
There wasn’t one - the praetorian guard would choose a leader who could pay the most.
What were the economic and social problems that led to Rome’s decline?
Declining trade, heavy taxes, corruption, poor leadership, and the cost of non-citizen armies.
In what year was Rome finally sacked and by whom?
CE 410 by Alaric the Goth
