Early Roman Republic Overview

Early Roman Republic

• The early Romans established a republic that grew powerful and influential.
• The legend of Romulus and Remus:
  • Twins abandoned on the Tiber River.
  • Raised by a she-wolf.
• Rome's geography:
  • Located in the center of the Italian Peninsula.
  • Developed along the Tiber River.

Roman Society and Early Groups

• Three main groups lived in the area:
  • Latins: Farmers and shepherds, the original Romans.
  • Greeks: Established colonies spreading Greek culture and commerce.
  • Etruscans: Skilled metalworkers in northern Italy, whose alphabet and arch design were adopted.

Roman Religion

• Roman religion was a blend of Greek legends, and Gods.
• Renamed Greek gods to Jupiter (Zeus) and Juno (Hera).

The Early Republic

• Initially, Etruscans ruled Rome (roughly 500 square miles).
• The Roman Forum became the center of Roman political life.
• Romans pledged to never be ruled by kings again.
• Rome transitioned from a monarchy to a republic.

Patricians and Plebeians

• Conflict between patricians (aristocratic landowners) and plebeians (common farmers, merchants and artisans).
• Plebeians demanded more rights.
• Tribunes were elected plebeian representatives to protect them from patrician officials.
• The Twelve Tables: A written law code established to protect citizens.

Roman Government

• The republic was modeled on the best parts of other government systems.
• Consuls: Two officials who commanded the army and directed the government, served one-year terms and could veto each other.
• Senate: Aristocratic branch of government with 300 members (Plebeians were later included).
  • Senators served for life, giving the senate continuity and power.
• Assembly: A more democratic branch with both patricians and plebeians, although patricians originally held more power.
• Dictator: An absolute ruler appointed in times of crisis.

Roman Army

• Legions: Large organized groups of 5,000 heavily armored soldiers (infantry and cavalry).

Roman Expansion

• Roman power grew gradually.
• Rome treated different regions of its empire differently (different laws, rights, etc...).
• Some neighboring groups were considered allies.
• Rome controlled the western Mediterranean.

Punic Wars

• Series of wars with Carthage, who competed with Rome for foreign markets.
• Hannibal (Carthaginian general) terrorized the Italian peninsula.
• Scipio (Roman general) forced Hannibal to return to defend Carthage, making Rome victorious.
• Rome controlled the western Mediterranean.
• Rome conquered eastern territories including Macedonia, Greece, and parts of Anatolia.