Roman Expansion
What is expansionism?
The idea that a country should grow by taking control of more land
What is a civil war?
A war between groups of people in the same country
What is inflation?
When prices go up and money buys less than before
What is persecution?
Unfair or cruel treatment because of beliefs or religion
What is a mercenary?
A soldier who fights for money, not for their own country
Why did Rome believe expansion made them safer?
They believed controlling nearby land pushed enemies farther away.
Why were soldiers loyal to Caesar instead of Rome?
He paid them, protected them, and promised them land and rewards
What does it mean to debase coins?
To reduce the value of money by mixing it with cheaper metals
Why did Romans see Christians as a threat?
Christians refused to worship Roman gods and emperors
Why was a large empire difficult to control?
Messages and armies took a long time to travel
How did resources from new lands help Rome?
They gave Rome food, gold, silver, slaves, and tax money
How did Caesar’s rule change the government?
Power moved from many leaders to one person, weakening the Republic
Why did prices rise in the classroom auction activity?
Because there was more money but the same number of goods
What is a martyr?
A person who dies for their religious or political beliefs
What happened during the Antonine Plague?
Millions of people died, including many soldiers
How did winning wars affect Roman pride?
Victories made Romans feel confident and proud of their country
Why was crossing the Rubicon important?
It broke Roman law and started a civil war
Why did Roman emperors make more coins?
To pay soldiers, protect borders, and fight wars
Why did Christianity grow even during persecution?
Devoted believers stayed strong and supported each other
How did the Plague of Cyprian make Rome weaker?
It reduced the army, caused fear, and increased political instability
Why did expansion become a habit for Rome?
Rome always had a strong army ready for war, so fighting became normal
What was the First Triumvirate?
An alliance between Caesar, Pompey, and Crassus to control politics
How did inflation hurt the Roman Empire?
Trade became weaker, people suffered, and the economy became unstable
What was the Edict of Milan?
A law by Constantine that officially allowed Christianity in Rome
Why was the Plague of Justinian so damaging?
It killed millions, stopped military campaigns, and weakened the empire long-term