In about 1200 B.C., the Latins invaded Italy. They settled in the central plains of the peninsula. E. Napp

According to Roman legend, the city that produced some of the world’s finest soldiers was founded by the sons of the war god, Mars: Romulus and Remus. E. Napp

The Latins lost their power to elect their own kings in the 600s B.C. when the Etruscans moved in and conquered them. E. Napp

The Etruscans introduced the Romans to Greek ideas and urged the Romans to trade with other Mediterranean countries. Contacts increased wealth and awareness of the outside world. E. Napp

From 616 to 509 B.C., the Etruscans ruled Rome. But the Romans rebelled and in 509 B.C., they established the world’s first republic. E. Napp

Although the new government was a type of democracy (citizens voted for representatives), only a small number of people had the right to decide how it was run. E. Napp

Patricians were wealthy landowners and held the power. The rest of the population consisted of small farmers, traders, and craftsmen. They were the plebeians. E. Napp

But in 494 B.C., the plebeians refused to fight or do work of any kind unless the patricians granted them more rights. Their status gradually improved. E. Napp

The government body called the Senate had the most power. The Senate, which had about 300 members, proposed laws, handled foreign affairs, and controlled public finances. E. Napp

The idea of being a Roman citizen was valued by outsiders. To win the loyalty of the people they conquered, the Romans might offer the reward of citizenship to the defeated. E. Napp