1. What was the significance of ancient Rome? Notes #9

2. Ancient Rome was a civilization that existed near the center of Italy.

3. Rome had the largest empire in the ancient world, surrounding the Mediterranean Sea.

4. Rome’s political system was an example of a strong central government, led by an emperor.
Emperor Augustus
Emperor Tiberius
Emperor Caligula

5. Beginning with Emperor Augustus, Rome experienced Pax Romana, which was 207 year period of peace and prosperity.
27 B.C. – A.D. 180

6. During this time, Rome grew wealthy by developing an extensive trade network.
Roman road network

7. Rome opposed other religions in the empire, such as Christians (who were persecuted for refusing to worship Roman gods) . . .

8. . . . and Jews (who were dispersed from their homeland during the Jewish Diaspora, due to their constant revolts against Rome).

9. Rome’s most significant contribution was in the area of law, when it established the Twelve Tables (which defined the rights of the accused).

10. The decline of Rome began when Rome’s empire had become too large to maintain and defend itself against invasions.

11. Roman Praetorian Guard
Political corruption within Rome’s government created instability, contributing to Rome’s decline.
25 Roman emperors were
assassinated by the
Praetorian Guard over
a 100 year span
Roman Praetorian Guard

12. Emperor Diocletian decided to divide the Roman Empire, in an attempt to make control of the empire more efficient.

13. The division of the empire left the Western Roman Empire too weak, leading to its eventual collapse.

14. “Dark Ages” or “Middle Ages”
As a result of Rome’s decline, Western Europe entered a period of chaos and disorder.
“Dark Ages” or “Middle Ages”

15. The Eastern Roman Empire was able to live on, later becoming known as the Byzantine Empire.