Foundations of Rome
Who were the first major inhabitants of Italy before Rome was founded?
Etruscans
Why was the Roman government divided into three branches?
To separate powers, prevent tyranny, and balance responsibilities between the Consuls, Senate, and Assemblies.
What title did Julius Caesar give himself in 44 BCE?
Dictator for Life
What does Pax Romana mean?
Roman Peace – a period of stability and prosperity from 27 BCE to 180 CE
How did Rome’s large size contribute to its decline?
It was difficult to govern, required a large army, and caused political instability.
According to legend, who were the twin brothers that founded Rome?
Romulus and Remus
What were the Punic Wars, and why were they important?
A series of wars between Rome and Carthage that allowed Rome to dominate the Mediterranean
Why was Julius Caesar assassinated?
The Senate feared he was becoming too powerful and destroying the Republic
What government policies helped maintain stability during the Pax Romana?
Strong legal system, professional bureaucracy, and civil service reforms
What effect did upper-class Romans becoming “soft” have on the empire?
They lost their ambition, focused on luxury, and had fewer children
What does the Latin phrase Senatus Populusque Romanus (SPQR) stand for?
The Senate and People of Rome
How did Sulla impact the Roman Republic?
He used the military to seize power, set a precedent for future generals to overthrow the government, and weakened the Republic
What was the First Triumvirate, and who were its members?
A political alliance between Julius Caesar, Pompey, and Crassus
What scientific or technological achievement helped improve daily life in the Roman Empire?
Examples: aqueducts for fresh water, concrete for durable buildings, Roman roads for transportation
How did political leadership change in Rome, leading to instability?
It shifted from a republic to an empire ruled by emperors who used bribery and force
What advantage did Rome’s geography provide in its early development?
Protection from invasions and access to trade routes
What societal problems contributed to the decline of the Roman Republic?
Growing gap between rich and poor, landless poor moving to cities, reliance on slave labor, and political corruption.
What is one positive thing Julius Caesar did for Rome during his rule?
expanded citizenship, redistributed land to the poor, created jobs through building projects, or reformed the calendar.
How did the Roman government ensure economic prosperity during the Pax Romana?
Standardized currency, secure trade routes, tax reforms, and grain distribution.
What economic and military strain was caused by Rome’s continuous expansion?
The need for more soldiers, food, and supplies increased taxation and weakened the economy.
What was the significance of the year 509 BCE in Roman history?
Rome overthrew the Etruscan king and became a Republic
Why did the Roman Republic ultimately collapse?
Civil wars, power struggles between generals, assassination of Julius Caesar, and transformation into an empire
Were Julius Caesar’s actions as ruler justifiable? Why or why not?
Reforms, dictatorship, weakening of Senate, helping the people, etc.
Why was Rome able to maintain stability for nearly 200 years during the Pax Romana?
Efficient government, military strength, economic growth, and loyalty through citizenship expansion
Of all the problems that contributed to Rome’s decline, which was the most significant?
Environment
Political
Economic
Social