Roman Legacies

Inventions The Roman Empire created countless new inventions, but they also spread older ideas around Europe and credited themselves with the invention. Improved the water wheel Created the first modern candles by dipping wicks into animal fat. First to develop boats operated by paddle wheel

Mechanical Reaper The Romans either invented or widely spread the first mechanical reaper. This machine would cut the ears of corn without the stalks. This machine was forgotten during the Dark Ages and the progress of the Romans was lost.

Roman ideas The Romans not only made new inventions but also new ideas. The Coliseum in Rome could seat and entertain around 50,000 people. One could see gladiator fights, mock sea battles, or executions here. A system was even present that could measure and bill for specific quantities of water, much as is in use today.

A Republic Much like we have today!

Ideas cont. Where would we be without our calendar? Well, the Romans came up with the Julian calendar that had 12 months and 365 days in a year, with a leap year every four years. The more accurate Gregorian calendar eventually took over, but is nearly identical. Roman numerals were used for counting and originated from notches taken on counting sticks. This system of numbers is still found in clocks and calendars today.

The idea of cleanliness Romans started the view of cleanliness and good hygiene. They would take daily baths in exquisite bathhouses that were made available to all levels of society,

Public Toilets Rome had over 144 public toilets. A small fee was charged to gain entry to each one, but most people could afford it. “Many Romans believed that Rome’s sewers were the city’s greatest achievement.” Seven rivers flowing through the city flushed sewage away.

Architecture Pantheon temple Roman Forum (Latin: Forum Romanum coliseum

Materials With the discovery of a strong and waterproof concrete, the Romans could create radically new architecture, such as domes and arches. Constantine’s Arch Pantheon

Aqueducts The waterproof concrete was used to create miles of aqueducts that brought water into cities. The aqueduct in Segovia, Spain is still standing.

Roads The Romans were famous for their roads. Some Roman roads exist to this day, nearly 2000 years after they were made. Roman roads were superbly made. Why did the Romans put so much effort into building roads?

The end The Romans made a huge impact on history with their inventions and innovations and the world would not be the same without them.