The Roman Republic Chapter 6, Section 1

The Origins of Rome Rome’s Geography The First Romans Site of Rome chosen for its fertile soil and strategic location Located on Italian Peninsula in the center of the Mediterranean Sea. Built on seven hills along Tiber River The First Romans Latins, Greeks, and Etruscans compete for control of the region. Latins found original settlement of Rome between 1000 B.C. and 500 B.C. Etruscans native to northern Italy influence Roman civilization

The Early Republic Early Rulers Around 600 B.C. Etruscan kings begin to rule Rome. Kings build Rome’s first temples and public centers Romans overthrow cruel Etruscan kings in 509 B.C. Romans found a republic—a government in which citizens elect leaders.

The Early Republic Patricians and Plebeians Different groups struggle for power in early Roman Republic Patricians—wealthy landowning class that holds most of the power Plebeians—artisans, merchants and farmers; can vote, but cannot rule Tribunes—elected representatives who protect Plebeians’ rights

The Early Republic Twelve Tables In 451 B.C. officials carve Roman laws on twelve tablets. Called the Twelve Tables, they become the basis for later Roman law. Laws confirm the right of all free citizens to the protection of the law. Citizenship is limited to adult male landowners. The Twelve Tables are hung in the Forum

The Early Republic Government Under the Republic Rome elects two consuls—one to lead the army and one to direct government. Senate—chosen from Roman upper class; makes foreign and domestic policy. Democratic assemblies elect tribunes and makes laws for common people. Dictators are leaders appointed briefly in times of crisis.

The Early Republic The Roman Army Roman legion—military unit of 5,000 infantry, supported by cavalry. Army is powerful and a key factor in Rome’s rise to greatness.

Rome Spreads Its Power Rome Conquers Italy The Romans defeat the Etruscans in the north and the Greek city-states in the south. By 265 B.C., Rome controls the entire Italian peninsula. Rome treats the conquered peoples justly. This enables Rome to grow.

Rome Spreads Its Power Rome’s Commercial Network Rome establishes a large trading network. Access to the Mediterranean Sea provides many trade routes. Carthage, a powerful city-state in North Africa, soon rivals Rome.

Rome Spreads Its Power War with Carthage Rome Triumphs Rome and Carthage begin the Punic Wars—three wars between 264 through 146 B.C. Rome defeats Carthage and wins Sicily in the first 23-year war. Hannibal, the Carthaginian general, avenges this defeat in the Second Punic War. He attacks Italy through Spain and France, but doesn’t take Rome. Rome Triumphs Roman general Scipio defeats Hannibal in 202 B.C. Rome destroys Carthage and enslaves its people in the Third Punic War from 149-146 B.C.

Hannibal crossing the Alps in the Second Punic War