1. The Lasting Contributions of Rome
Standard 7.1

2. Architecture
Public Works were structures built by the government for the use of the public. They built public baths, temples, bridges, forums, and marketplaces
The three most important innovations were the arch, cement, and the baked brick

3. Engineering
The Romans invented cement, which was stronger than stone and designed huge arches and domes with it.
They also used concrete to build more than 50,000 miles of roads. This helped unify the empire.
Aqueducts carried water from the countryside to the city.

4. Water Supplies Public fountains supplied clean water to citizens.
Sewer systems carried away wastewater.
Public baths were available for all to enjoy.

5. Art
Romans created
masterpieces of art in sculpture, painting, pottery, and mosaics.
Frescos were painted on walls throughout the cities.
The arts were greatly influenced by the Greeks.

6. Roman Law and Citizenship
In 451 B.C., the leaders of the Roman Republic wrote the Twelve Tables. This code of laws dealt with daily Roman life.
Citizenship gave people the right to participate in government and gave them equal rights under the law.

7. The Twelve Tables
Table IV: A dreadfully deformed child shall be quickly killed.
Table V: Females should remain in guardianship even when they have attained their majority.
Table XI: Marriages should not take place between plebeians and patricians.

8. Influence of Roman Law
The United States and many European and Latin nations have been influenced by Roman law.
Principles of the Roman Republic, such as equal justice under the law, are still important.

9. The Legacy of Language
The Romance languages (Spanish, Italian, French…) are based on Latin, the language of the Romans.
Our alphabet is based on the Roman alphabet.

10. The Christian Religion
Christianity, based on the teachings of Jesus of Nazareth, urged followers to love God and one another.
Though Jesus was executed under Roman rule, his message was carried throughout the empire by his followers.
Early on, Christians were persecuted, but in the 300’s A.D., Emperor Constantine made it the official religion of the Empire.
Today, Christianity is the largest religion in the world.