Greeks and Romans

Age 2
3000 BC - 500 AD
Content period 2

4. Ancient Rome

5. Early Middle Ages

Ancient Rome

Paragraph:
- 4.1 The dawn of Rome
Lesson goals: Chapter 4
• In this chapter, you will learn:
• The differences between the Roman Kingdom, Republic and Empire
• How Rome evolved from a small polis into the dominant power in Europe
• Why the conflict between optimates and populares started
• How the Romans came into conflict with the German tribes
• Who Caius Marius was
• How citizens in Rome had influence on the government
• Which changes in the Republic led to a new monarchy
• How Christianity started and evolved into the dominant religion
• How Rome spread the Greco-Roman culture across their empire
Founding of Rome: The myth of Romulus and Remus
Governance in the Roman Empire
1. Monarchy: 753–509 BC
2. Republic: 509–27 BC
3. Empire: 27 BC–476 AD
Early Rome: the Monarchy
• In its earliest days, Rome was a
monarchy, meaning it was ruled by
kings.
• These kings were powerful leaders,
but they didn’t rule alone.
• They had the help of the Senate, a
council of elders from wealthy and
important families.
Early Rome: the Monarchy
• The Senate gave advice to the king and helped make decisions
about laws, war, and religion.
• The monarchy ended in 509 BC when the Romans decided they
didn’t want one person
to have all the power
anymore.
• This marked the start of
a new government
system: the Roman
Republic.
Homework
• Make:

• Assignment 2, 3, 4, 5 of paragraph 4.1

From monarchy to republic
‘Res Publica’ (common matter) → Republic
= A country governed by one or more elected leaders.

• Consisted of the Senate and two consuls.

The Senate
• The assembly of the wealthiest and most important families that governed the
Roman Republic.
S.P.Q.R. ("Senatus Populusque Romanus" = The Senate and the People of Rome).
• Responsibilities:
• Voting on legislative proposals.
• Electing two consuls annually.
From Monarchy to Republic
• Sometimes, in emergencies, the Romans appointed a
dictator, a leader with complete power, but only for a
short time.
• One famous example is Cincinnatus, a farmer who
became a dictator, solved a crisis, and then gave up
his power to return to farming.
• This showed the Roman ideal of putting the
community first.
• The Republic lasted for nearly 500 years and became
a model for future governments, including modern
democracies.
Roman Republic 509–27 BC
• Consul: The highest official and military leader in the Roman Republic.

• Each year, two consuls were elected by the Senate.

• Responsibilities:
• Leading Senate meetings.
• Proposing laws.
• Exercising veto power.
• Waging war against Rome’s enemies.
Rome becomes dominant in Italy
• Over time, Rome expanded and became the most powerful city in
Italy. They used clever strategies to build alliances with other
communities, often by offering them Roman citizenship.
• Rome's growth affected the way people farmed.
• In some areas, they practiced monoculture, focusing on growing just
one type of crop, like wheat or olives.
• This made farming simpler but risky because a bad harvest could
mean famine.
Homework
• Make:

• Assignment 6, 7, 8, 13b, 13c of paragraph 4.1

 Ancient Rome

Paragraph:
- 4.2 Rome becomes an empire
Lesson goals: Chapter 4
• In this chapter, you will learn:
• The differences between the Roman Kingdom, Republic and Empire
• How Rome evolved from a small polis into the dominant power in Europe
• Why the conflict between optimates and populares started
• How the Romans came into conflict with the German tribes
• Who Caius Marius was
• How citizens in Rome had influence on the government
• Which changes in the Republic led to a new monarchy
• How Christianity started and evolved into the dominant religion
• How Rome spread the Greco-Roman culture across their empire
Carthage
 The Conquest of Carthage
• Trading city in North Africa
• A rival of the Roman Empire.

• 146 BC: Carthage was destroyed by

the Romans.
• 44 BC: The city was rebuilt by the
Romans.

• Remains of the city can still be found

in Tunis, Tunisia.
The Punic Wars
• The Punic Wars were a series of three wars between Rome and
Carthage (264–146 BC).

• They were critical in Rome's rise as a Mediterranean superpower:

• First Punic War (264–241 BC): Rome fought Carthage over control of Sicily.
Rome built its first navy and won, gaining Sicily as its first province.
• Second Punic War (218–201 BC): The Carthaginian general Hannibal famously
crossed the Alps with elephants to invade Italy. Hannibal won several battles,
but Rome won eventually.
• Third Punic War (149–146 BC): Rome completely destroyed Carthage, turning
its land into the province of Africa.
The Roman Army
• Reasons for Success:
• Well-armed and well-trained army
• Excellent weapons and rigorous training.
• Good organization
• Discipline and a clear hierarchy.
• Honor and motivation
• It was an honor to fight for their city.
• Motivation from rewards for successful campaigns:
• For wealthy Romans: The army was a steppingstone
to important government positions.
• For ordinary soldiers: They received a small share of
the spoils of war.
• Wealthy Romans also claimed large areas of
conquered land.
Soldiering far from Rome
• Soldiers were sent to fight in faraway lands for longer periods.

• Most Roman soldiers were small landowners who struggled to

maintain their farms during long absences.

• Many returned to find their farms in ruins or bought out by wealthy

elites.

• Common people and soldiers called for land reform. Reformers

proposed redistributing land to the poor.
Land reform: the battle between
Optimates and Populares
• This idea sparked intense conflict between two political groups:
• Optimates: The elite who wanted to maintain traditional authority
and protect their wealth.
• Populares: Reformers who appealed to the common people and
wanted to address inequality.

• The Gracchus brothers, Tiberius and Gaius, were Populares who

introduced land reforms in the 2nd century BC. Both were killed.

• Other important Populares were Caius Marius en Caius Julius Caesar.

Homework
• Make:

• Assignment 2, 4, 6, 7 of paragraph 4.2

Civil War and Julius Caesar
• The tensions between the Optimates and Populares exploded into a
series of civil wars.

• Generals like Marius (a Populares) and Sulla (an Optimate) fought for
control.

• Julius Caesar, a skilled general and a Populares, emerged victorious

after a civil war against the Optimate Pompey.
Civil War and Julius Caesar
• Caesar became dictator for life in
44 BC, implementing reforms but
angering the Senate.

• He was assassinated that same

year by a group of senators,
including Brutus and Cassius, who
feared he aimed to become a
king.
Augustus: the first Roman emperor
• After Caesar's assassination, another civil war broke out between his
supporters and opponents.
• Caesar’s heir, Octavian, defeated his rivals, including Mark Antony
and Cleopatra of Egypt, at the Battle of Actium in 31 BC.
Augustus: the first Roman emperor
• In 27 BC, Octavian became Augustus, the first Roman emperor.

• He adopted the title Princeps Senatus (first citizen of the Senate),

maintaining the illusion of a republic while holding ultimate power.

• Augustus brought stability, reformed the

military, and launched the Pax Romana
(Roman Peace), a period of relative peace and
prosperity lasting over 200 years.
Mare
Nostru
m
“Our sea”
Roman Now
Brittannia

Germania

Belgica

Gallia

Hispania

Mauretania
Dacia
Thracia
Armenia
Aegyptus
Homework
• Make:

• Assignment 9, 11 of paragraph 4.2 and the schedule of countries.

Ancient Rome

Paragraph:
- 4.3 Join the Romans
Lesson goals: Chapter 4
• In this chapter, you will learn:
• The differences between the Roman Kingdom, Republic and Empire
• How Rome evolved from a small polis into the dominant power in Europe
• Why the conflict between optimates and populares started
• How the Romans came into conflict with the German tribes
• Who Caius Marius was
• How citizens in Rome had influence on the government
• Which changes in the Republic led to a new monarchy
• How Christianity started and evolved into the dominant religion
• How Rome spread the Greco-Roman culture across their empire
From Bibracte to Augustodunum
• Bibracte (France) was an ancient hillfort belonging to the Gauls.
• After the Romans conquered the region, they built a Roman city
called Augustodunum (modern-day Autun).

• The Romans introduced Roman ways of life,

like the Latin language, Roman laws,
architecture, and customs, to the local
people, this is Romanisation

• Over time, Gauls began to adopt Roman

culture, creating a mix of traditions.
Greek influence in Rome
• 2nd century BC: The Romans conquered Greece.
• Admiration for Greek culture: architecture, gods, and
(poetic) art. • Mars = Ares
• Neptune = Poseidon
• Greek gods → Roman names: • Venus = Aphrodite
• Jupiter = Zeus
• Juno = Hera
• Temples in Greek style. • Minerva = Pallas Athene

• Result: The rise of Greco-Roman culture = Classical

Culture.
• Classical Antiquity = The era of Greeks and Romans.
Roman culture
• Roman customs:
• Worshipping emperors (as additional gods).
• Wearing togas.
• Using Latin.
• Roman numerals.
• Entertainment:
• Chariot racing.
• Bathhouses.
• (Amphi)theaters.
• Gladiators!
Bread and games
The rulers in Rome kept the people
calm with bread and games: free
grain and entertainment for the
population.

The authorities organized events such

as horse races in racetracks and
gladiator fights in amphitheaters
like the Colosseum.
Gladiators (mosaic from Rome, 4th century A.D.)
Romanisation
• Romans spread within and beyond the empire
• Continued their lifestyle (temples, theaters, bathhouses, etc.).
• Conquered people were allowed to keep their own customs and
religion.
• Exception: They were required to make offerings to the Roman god Jupiter,
the goddess Roma, and the emperor.
• Additionally, they had to pay taxes and provide soldiers for the Roman army.
• (Wealthy) populations adopted Roman customs:
• Speaking Latin.
• Wearing togas.
• Worshipping Roman gods.
Not mandatory, but wealthy
citizens happily adopted Roman
customs!
Homework
• Make:

• Assignment 1a, 3, 4, 5 (with internet) of paragraph 4.3

Roman citizenship
• What privileges did you have as a Roman citizen?
• Paying less tax.
• Becoming an official (administrator).
• Better treatment in legal matters → Roman Law.
• Key principle: no punishment without trial.

• How Could Germanic Peoples Gain Roman Citizenship?

• Women: by marrying a Roman.
• Men: by serving in the Roman army for a certain period.
Roman Roads
• The Romans were famous for building a network of roads that
connected their vast empire.
• These roads were straight, well-paved, and built to last.
• Soldiers, traders, and messengers
could travel quickly, helping the
empire stay connected.
• One famous example is the
Via Appia in Italy.
• These roads also helped spread
Roman culture and made it easier
for people in far-off places to feel
part of the empire.
The increase of trade
• The Pax Romana ("Roman Peace") was a period of stability
and peace across the Roman Empire, lasting about 200 years.
• This peaceful time allowed trade to flourish. Merchants could safely
travel on Roman roads and across the Mediterranean Sea, exchanging
goods like wine, olive oil, and spices.
• The Romans used coins called denarii to make trade easier.
• These coins had images of emperors or
gods, showing Rome’s power and wealth.
Roman friends and foes
• Friendly groups (allies) were often allowed to keep some
independence if they helped the Romans by providing soldiers or
paying taxes.

• However, groups that resisted Roman

rule became their enemies and faced
harsh punishment.
• For example, Julius Caesar fought
against the Gallic tribes but also
worked with some as allies to control
the region.
Impressive builders
• The Romans were incredible architects and engineers.
• They built aqueducts to bring fresh water to their cities, bridges that
still stand today, and massive arenas like the Colosseum for
entertainment.
• Their concrete was so advanced that many of their buildings and
roads have lasted for thousands of years.
• They also designed cities with public baths, forums (marketplaces),
and temples.

• [Link]
Roman Houses
• Roman houses showed the wealth of their owners.
• Rich Romans lived in large homes called domus, which had beautiful
mosaics, gardens, and courtyards.
• Poorer Romans lived in small, crowded apartments called insulae.
• Most houses had a space called an atrium, an open area where
families gathered.
• Wealthy homes often had running water thanks to aqueducts.
Homework
• Make:

• Assignment 7a, 7c, 8a, 8b, 11 of paragraph 4.3

Ancient Rome

Paragraph:
- 4.4 Christian Rome
Lesson goals: Chapter 4
• In this chapter, you will learn:
• The differences between the Roman Kingdom, Republic and Empire
• How Rome evolved from a small polis into the dominant power in Europe
• Why the conflict between optimates and populares started
• How the Romans came into conflict with the German tribes
• Who Caius Marius was
• How citizens in Rome had influence on the government
• Which changes in the Republic led to a new monarchy
• How Christianity started and evolved into the dominant religion
• How Rome spread the Greco-Roman culture across their empire
Monotheistic Religions
• Belief in one God
• Judaism → Christianity

• Judaism:
• Judea (modern-day Israel)
• Holy book = Tenakh (creation story, Ten Commandments, history of
the Jewish people)
• Place of worship = Synagogue
• Belief in a Messiah: to free them from Roman oppression
Judea in the Roman Empire
• Judea became part of the Roman Empire in 63 BC by making it a client
kingdom, meaning it was semi-independent.
• Local rulers governed under Roman control, such as King Herod the Great.
• Over time, direct Roman rule replaced local kings, leading to tension.
• Pontius Pilate took over in 26 AD.

• These tensions led to the destruction of the

Second Temple in Jerusalem in 70 AD during
the Jewish-Roman wars.
• Many Jews were forced to leave Judea,
spreading across the Roman Empire in what
is called the Diaspora.
Jesus of Nazareth
• Jesus, born in Judea during Roman rule, was a Jewish
teacher and preacher whose teachings focused on love,
forgiveness, and devotion to God.

• Some believed he was the Messiah ("Christos" in Greek’:

"the anointed one"/"the Savior"), fulfilling Jewish prophecies.

• Life after death in Heaven ("Kingdom of God")

• His message spread, forming small communities within Judaism, often
referred to as "Jesus' cult" in early writings.
Persecution of Christians
• After his crucifixion (around 30–33 AD), followers believed he rose from the
dead. The early Christians considered his resurrection proof of his divine
nature.

• Early Christianity was initially a Jewish movement but began spreading to

gentiles (non-Jews), thanks to figures like Peter or Paul the Apostle. This
caused the religion to grow beyond Judea.

• Christians were often persecuted for refusing to worship Roman gods or the
emperor. Many were killed in gruesome ways, becoming martyrs. Over time,
some martyrs were honored as saints, people believed to be especially holy.
Christianity Grows in the Empire
• Despite early persecutions, Christianity gained followers because of
its message of hope, equality, and eternal life.

• It also appealed to the poor. By the 3rd century, it was no longer a

fringe religion but a growing faith across the empire.

• As Christian communities grew, they organized hierarchically. The

bishop of Rome became an influential leader, later known as the
Pope, the head of the Church.
Constantine the Great
• Constantine became emperor in 306 AD.

• Edict of Milan: In 313 AD, Constantine issued this decree, granting

religious tolerance to Christians and ending their persecution.

• Constantine became a key supporter of the Church, building Christian

basilicas and calling the First Council of Nicaea in 325 AD to establish
unified Christian beliefs.
• He moved the capital to Byzantium, renaming it Constantinople,
which became a center of Christian power.
Homework
• Make:

• Assignment 2, 3, 4, 6, 10 of paragraph 4.4

 Ancient Rome

Paragraph:
- 4.5 End of the Roman Empire
Lesson goals: Chapter 4
• In this chapter, you will learn:
• The differences between the Roman Kingdom, Republic and Empire
• How Rome evolved from a small polis into the dominant power in Europe
• Why the conflict between optimates and populares started
• How the Romans came into conflict with the German tribes
• Who Caius Marius was
• How citizens in Rome had influence on the government
• Which changes in the Republic led to a new monarchy
• How Christianity started and evolved into the dominant religion
• How Rome spread the Greco-Roman culture across their empire
End of expansion in the West
• By the 2nd century AD, the Roman Empire had reached its maximum
size.
• The empire built a defensive system called the Limes—a network of
walls, fortifications, and watchtowers along its borders.
• The most famous example is Hadrian’s Wall in Britain.

• These defenses were meant

to protect Rome from
invasions but also signaled
that Rome was no longer
aggressively expanding.
The confrontation with the Germanic
tribes
• The Germanic tribes, including the Batavians (who lived in the region
of modern-day Netherlands), had a complex relationship with Rome.
• The Batavians initially served as allies and elite soldiers in the Roman
army.

• However, in 69 AD, they revolted against Roman rule in the Batavian

Revolt, led by Julius Civilis.
Migrations
• Huns: Moved from Asia, plundering through Europe.
• Consequence: Germanic tribes fled into the Western Roman
Empire.

• Visigoths and Vandals: Searching for new

farmland, a milder climate, and more wealth
in the Western Roman Empire.
• Franks and Alemanni: Given permission to
settle in the Western Roman Empire in
exchange for defending the borders.
Homework
• Make:

• Assignment 1, 2, 3, 4 of paragraph 4.5

The decline and fall of Rome
• By the 4th and 5th centuries AD, the Western Roman Empire was in
decline.
• One of the most destructive groups was the Vandals, a Germanic
tribe that migrated through Gaul and Spain before settling in North
Africa.
• In 455 AD, they famously sacked Rome, looting its wealth and
weakening the empire further. This act was so impactful that the word
“vandalism” comes from their name.
• The Western Roman Empire finally collapsed in 476 AD when the last
emperor, Romulus Augustulus, was deposed.
Western and Eastern Roman Empire
Western Roman Empire Eastern Roman Empire
Capital Rome Constantinople (Istanbul)
Start 395 395
End 476 1453
Reasons for the split
• Problems in the Roman Empire:
• The army was too small
• Lower revenues (army too expensive / tax income too low)
• Soldiers felt more connected to their general than to the emperor
• Succession struggles after the emperor’s death (unrest!)
End of
Roman
Empire as
we know it
Coins, trade, and security
• During its peak, Rome had a strong economy based on trade, a stable
currency system, and safe trade routes such as the Mediterranean
Sea and Roman roads.
• However, as the empire weakened, trade suffered due to constant
invasions and piracy.
• The Roman government debased coins (reducing their silver and gold
content), leading to inflation.
• Without strong trade, cities declined, and people fled to the
countryside for security, marking the start of the feudal system.
The heir of Rome
• Even though the Western Roman Empire fell, its legacy continued.
• The Byzantine Empire, or the Eastern Roman Empire, survived for
another 1,000 years, with Constantinople (modern-day Istanbul) as
its capital.
• It preserved Roman laws, culture, and traditions. In Western Europe,
the idea of the Roman Empire was revived by rulers like Charlemagne
in the 9th century, who became the first emperor of the Holy Roman
Empire.
• The influence of Rome can still be seen today in language, law,
architecture, and government systems.
Homework
• Make:

• Assignment 6abc, 7, 8, 9 of paragraph 4.5

Homework
• Make:

• Assignment 12 of paragraph 4.5