Ancient Greece and Rome

These flashcards cover key concepts and events from ancient Greek and Roman history, providing a useful tool for review and study for the exam.

What geographical factors shaped the political and social development of Ancient Greece?

Mountainous terrain, many islands, poor farmland, and geographic isolation.

What are the major city-states of Ancient Greece and what were their characteristics?

Athens: democracy, arts, education; Sparta: military discipline, obedience.

What is a Polis?

A city-state in Greece; the center of political, social, and cultural life.

What is Arete in the context of Ancient Greece?

Excellence and virtue; pursuit of personal and communal greatness.

What were the results of the Persian Wars?

Greek victory, increased unity, formation of the Delian League, importance of alliances and military innovation.

Who was Pericles and what was his significance?

Pericles led Athens during its Golden Age, fostering cultural and democratic growth.

What was the outcome of the Peloponnesian War?

Spartan victory, weakening Greece and making it vulnerable to Macedonian conquest.

What was the purpose of the Delian League?

An alliance of Greek city-states led by Athens to defend against Persia.

What contributions did Herodotus and Thucydides make to history?

Herodotus focused on the Persian Wars, while Thucydides emphasized accuracy in chronicling the Peloponnesian War.

What was the Socratic method?

A form of questioning developed by Socrates to seek truth.

Who was Plato and what did he advocate?

A student of Socrates who wrote The Republic and advocated for rule by philosopher-kings.

What cumulative cultural impact did Alexander the Great have after his conquests?

The spread of Greek culture leading to the Hellenistic culture, which blended various cultures.

Why was Rome's location strategically important?

Central location in the Mediterranean provided trade opportunities, defense, and fertile farmland.

What was the significance of Lucretia's story in Roman history?

Her rape and subsequent suicide led to the overthrow of the monarchy and establishment of the Republic.

What were the Twelve Tables?

Codified laws in Rome that protected plebeian rights.

What was the outcome of the Punic Wars for Rome?

Expansion of territory, dominance in the Mediterranean, and economic and social issues leading to military leaders' rise.

Who were the Gracchi Brothers and what did they attempt to do?

They tried to implement land reforms for redistribution and were both assassinated.

What was the significance of the Pax Romana?

A period of peace and stability established under Augustus, the first Roman emperor.

What role did the Church play in medieval Europe?

It was a significant authority with influence over social, political, and cultural affairs.

What were the causes and effects of the Crusades?

Causes: religion, land, wealth; Effects: trade increased, cultural exchange, stronger monarchs.

What did the Magna Carta establish?

It limited monarchy and laid the foundation for legal rights and representation.

What marked the decline of feudalism?

The rise of strong monarchies, towns, and trade.

What was humanism, and how did it differ from medieval ideas?

Humanism emphasized human potential and classical learning, contrasting with the medieval focus on fatalism.