Untitled Flashcards Set

Geography of Rome

Surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea, Tyrrhenian Sea, and the Adriatic Sea; the Alps serve as a natural northern border.

Romulus and Remus

Twin sons of Mars who were saved by a wolf and founded Rome after Romulus defeated Remus.

Transition to Republic

Rome transitioned from a monarchy to a republic in 509 BCE after the overthrow of Tarquin the Proud.

Patricians and Plebeians

In Rome's early republic, the Patricians were wealthy landowners who held most power, while Plebeians were the common people.

Punic Wars

A series of three wars between Rome and Carthage from 264 BCE to 146 BCE, with Rome emerging victorious and expanding its dominance.

Julius Caesar

A general who became consul, later dictator; his assassination in 44 BCE marked the end of the Roman Republic.

Prominent Emperors

Key figures like Trajan, who expanded social welfare, and Hadrian, known for Hadrian's Wall.

Pax Romana

A 150-year period of peace during Caesar Augustus's rule marked by expansion, improved taxation, and infrastructure.

Spread of Christianity

Jesus of Nazareth preached love and forgiveness; Christianity spread despite persecution and became the official religion under Constantine.

Decline of Rome

Economic troubles, overexpansion, reliance on mercenaries, and weak leaders led to Rome's downfall in 476 CE with the Germanic tribes' sacking.