Key Concepts of Early Roman History
Chronology of Rome
c. 750-509 B.C.E.: Etruscans rule Rome
c. 509-31 B.C.E.: Roman Republic established
264-202 B.C.E.: First and Second Punic Wars
50s-30s B.C.E.: Formation of two triumvirates
27 B.C.E.-14 C.E.: Reign of Augustus
31 B.C.E.-180 C.E.: Pax Romana
14-69 C.E.: Julio-Claudian emperors
69-96 C.E.: Flavian emperors
161-180 C.E.: Reign of Marcus Aurelius
Introduction to Roman Foundations
Rome's location: halfway down the western Italian coast along the Tiber River.
Roman civilization shaped significantly by the Etruscans and Greeks.
Influence of Etruscans
Etruscans arrived in Italy around 800 B.C.E., established city-states.
They influenced Roman religion, art, and architecture.
Rule over Rome from c. 750-509 B.C.E.; eventually overthrown leading to decline.
Greek Influence
Greeks settled in southern Italy during 700s B.C.E., transforming the region into a prosperous civilization.
Romans viewed Greeks as culturally superior, impacting Roman attitudes and culture.
Phoenician Influence through Carthage
Carthage emerged as a significant power around 700 B.C.E., influencing Italian history through conflict.
Carthaginians competed with Romans after exhausting battles with Greeks.
Early Italic Peoples
Indo-European peoples settled in Italy as early as 1500 B.C.E., including Etruscans, Greeks, and Phoenicians by 800 B.C.E.
The blend of influences significantly contributed to early Italian development.
Foundation of Rome
Legend states Rome founded by Romulus and Remus around 753 B.C.E.
Rome began as a consolidation of agrarian villages.
Under Etruscan rule until 509 B.C.E., when the last king was overthrown leading to the formation of the Republic.
Republican Government Structure
The Senate: comprised patricians (5-10% of population) with substantial influence.
Plebeians (90% of population) represented in the General Assembly.
Executive power held by two consuls elected for one-year terms from Senate members.