ROMAN CIVILIZATION Concluding Chapter 4

Basics 800 BCE – 476 CE; actual “empire” from 550 BCE – 476 CE; was a monarchy from 800 – 550 BCE. Rome (Roman Empire) is located west of Greece in the Mediterranean Sea. Romans are NOT identical to Greece, but they DO preserve most Greek achievements Rome created a massive “empire” Their influence during this time was in engineering, language, and law.

Subjugating The Mediterranean The final phase of Mediterranean Civilizations was when the Roman Empire subjugated (take control of) both Greece and the Hellenistic Kingdoms. Hellenistic Kingdoms = Alexander the Great’s kingdom: Macedonia (northern Greece) + spread East all the way to Indian border + Egypt Leaders during this time: Julius Caesar, Augustus Caesar, & Marcus Aurelius

Roman Political Structure Similar to Greece with aristocracy The Constitution of Roman Republic: ◦ All Roman citizens could gather in assemblies ◦ Most important legislative body was the Senate  composed mainly of aristocrats Some political writings resembled Confucianism (China). Roman army officers often held great political power (sometimes even over the emperor)

Roman Political Structure Romans had a high tolerance for local customs and religions as well as a strong military organization First Roman code of law is the “Twelve Tablets” (450 BCE) ◦ Used to restrain upper classes and to subject them (and common people) to common legal principles ◦ Believed that laws should evolve to meet changing conditions Roman law promoted “common-sense fairness”

Roman Political Structure Rome placed greater importance on military conquest than all of Greece did. Roman government/empire built public baths, stadiums (gladiator fights), offered cheap food…all for the people! ◦ This helped the government keep the masses in order and to prevent popular disorder.

Roman Religion Did NOT create a single “world-class” religion (example: Confucianism) Christianity did arise later during the Roman Empire, however it was NOT a product of Roman culture…just influenced by it. Had gods & goddesses (polytheistic) who “regulated” human life. ◦ Ceremonies to the gods had political importance because they (political leaders) believed the gods could foresee the future.

Roman Technology & the Arts Built aqueducts which carried running water to cities (large and small). Construction of elaborate arches so buildings could carry more weight Engineering (built roads) Plays and stories were elaborate and devoted to the gods Art emphasized beauty of realistic portrayal of human form (Human-centered art) ◦ Roman Empire known more for athletic performances than Greece (Gladiators and chariot races) Not as technologically advanced as China or India

Roman Economy Commercial agriculture, trade, slavery ◦ Commercial agriculture leads to trade Most Romans are farmers Roman Republic declined because, later, too many farmers became dependent on protection of landlords. Traded mainly in the Mediterranean, but also some trade in India & China Slavery spread towards end of Roman Republic ◦ Slaves used in military expansion, working the mines, agriculture work, and household tasks – including tutoring!

Roman Family/Social Structure Still a predominately patriarchal society Tight family structure Women often commanded great influence in upper class households, but were inferior to men in law and culture.

DONE-ZO!