PRESENTATION OUTLINE
Rome is located in the center of the Italian Peninsula
Rome is surrounded by two natural protection barriers: the Alps, and the Mediterranean Sea
The Ancient Romans adopted most of the Greek gods and myths to their own culture
Origin Myth
Rome was founded by two older (twin) brothers; one hood, one good
Romulus and Remus were supposed to be killed, a servant saves their lives by placing them in a basket into the Tiber RIver
The basket is found by a wolf, who raises Romulus and Remus
The two brothers are very competitive with one another. Ultimately Romulus kills Remus over a competition. He then creates Rome in his name
As Rome grew its empire, the religion spread. Some native religions (such as Judiasm) were still practiced, but were not always legal
Christianity was forbidden in the Roman Empire until Emperor Constantine around 380 C.E.
Social classes were broken down into: Patricians, Plebeians, and Slaves
Patricians: Wealthy nobility who held most of the power
Plebeians: majority of Romans. Could participate in government, but not as powerful
Slaves: Could not participate in government
Patrician, Plebeian, and some foreign men could be citizens.
Being a citizen meant paying taxes, and serving in the military (plebeian)
The Roman Republic had a Representative government (like the US)
Assemblies: legislative branch; makes the laws (3 branches)
Consuls: Two individuals appointed to serve as executive branch in charge of military and political power Served for 1 year..
Senate: Served as advisors to kings/consuls. Supervised international agreements
Tribunes: New branch after Plebeians rebel. Write the 12 tables (first constitution of Rome)
