Wars Of Independence Flashcards
(18 cards)
When were the Wars of Independence?
509 / 508 BC
What sparked the First War of Independence in 509 BC and who was it against?
The Veii were supporting the exiled King Superbus and helped him seek revenge against Rome. This led to a war between Rome and Veii, one of Rome’s old Etruscan enemies.
Who led the Roman forces in the First War of Independence (509 BC)?
Brutus was given control of the cavalry. Publius Valerius Publicola was given control of the infantry army.
Where did the Romans and Veii fight in 509 BC, and what was the key moment of the battle?
They met at the Battle of Silva Arsia, a forest near Rome. Arruns, a general from Veii, spotted Brutus surrounded by lictors and engaged him in combat. Both Brutus and Arruns killed each other in the duel.
What happened to Brutus after the battle at Silva Arsia?
A state funeral was arranged for Brutus, who became a symbol of the Republic’s sacrifice.
What political suspicion arose about Publius Valerius after the battle, and how was it resolved?
After Brutus’ death, Valerius delayed appointing a new consul, and people feared he wanted to become king. He then appointed Marcus Horatius as co-consul to show his loyalty to the Republic.
What laws and reforms did Valerius (Publicola) introduce after Silva Arsia?
Passed laws ensuring fair prices for the plebs. Gave plebs the right to appeal against magistrates. Was given the nickname ‘Publicola’ meaning ‘friend of the people’.
What economic relief did Publicola give to the plebs?
Moved plebeian livestock to the mountains for safety. Passed a law that plebeians didn’t have to contribute to the first year of the next war.
Who was the Second War of Independence in 508 BC against, and why?
It was against Lars Porsena, King of Clusium. Superbus asked him for help regaining his throne. Porsena demanded either Superbus be restored or his possessions returned. Rome refused, so Porsena declared war.
What strategic position did Porsena seize early in the war?
Seized control of the Janiculum Hill, a strategic high ground near Rome. Rome’s army defended the Tiber Bridge, which was the gateway into the city.
What happened to the Roman army during Porsena’s attack on the Tiber Bridge?
Many of the strongest Roman soldiers were killed. Three Romans volunteered to hold the bridge to delay the Etruscans. Horatius Cocles, a descendant of the surviving Roman triplet, stayed behind. The last Roman to cross the bridge destroyed it leaving Horatius to swim across the Tiber.
What was the impact of Horatius Cocles’ action at the Tiber Bridge?
He delayed the Etruscan advance, allowing Rome to regroup. Became a heroic symbol of Roman bravery and sacrifice.
Why did the plebeians begin supporting Superbus again during the Second War of Independence?
The Roman army was defeated, and plebs began deserting the city out of frustration and fear.
What did Mucius Scaevola do, and what mistake did he make?
He infiltrated the Etruscan camp to assassinate Porsena. Killed the secretary by mistake because he’d never seen Porsena. Was arrested, but claimed he was the first of 300 men sent to assassinate the king.
What offer did Porsena make after Mucius’ assassination attempt?
Porsena offered to end the war if the Veii were given independence and hostages were handed over to Clusium.
Who was Cloelia and what heroic act did she perform?
One of the hostages sent to Porsena. Escaped and swam across the Tiber. Porsena was impressed by her bravery and granted her and other hostages freedom. She chose her children to be freed.
When did Rome fully regain control of its neighbours and which group was included?
Rome regained control in 499 BC, including over the Sabines.
How did Rome respond to plebeian anger over constant wars?
Appointed a dictator to handle the crisis. Dictator Larcius updated the census to ensure military levies were fair.
