Roman Civilization Overview

Constantine legalized Christianity in 313 CE.

Economic problems and military invasions were two main factors.

The Western Roman Empire spoke Latin while the Eastern Roman Empire spoke Greek.

<p>The concept of 'innocent until proven guilty' is a significant legal concept from Roman law.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The Western Roman Empire practiced Catholic Christianity, while the Eastern Roman Empire adhered to Eastern Orthodox Christianity.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Rome's location had access to water from the Tiber River, natural defenses from surrounding hills, and control over trade routes in the Mediterranean.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Rome established a republic where elected officials governed instead of a king.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>In a direct democracy, people vote directly on laws, while in a republic, representatives are elected to make decisions for the populace.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Rome started as a small village and expanded by conquering lands around the Mediterranean, including areas like Greece, Gaul, and Egypt.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Julius Caesar expanded Rome’s territory and became a dictator, leading to the transition from a republic to an empire.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>In Roman society, the rich had power and land, while the poor had fewer rights; men enjoyed more power than women, and citizens had rights whereas slaves were considered property.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Romans enjoyed gladiator games, chariot races, theater performances, public baths, and extravagant feasts.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Jews and Christians were persecuted for refusing to worship Roman gods, often facing unfair treatment and martyrdom for their beliefs.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Constantine I, the Roman Emperor, made Christianity legal in the Roman Empire in the year 313 CE. This marked a significant shift in the empire's religious landscape and ultimately paved the way for Christianity's widespread acceptance.

The Western Roman Empire collapsed in 476 CE, marked by the deposition of Romulus Augustulus. This event is traditionally considered the end of the classical Roman era in the West.

The Eastern Roman Empire, often referred to as the Byzantine Empire, survived until 1453 CE. It had a distinct culture and religion, with a strong influence from Greek civilization, and was centered around Constantinople.

The Roman Empire's legacy includes contributions to language, law, engineering, and government. Latin, the language of the Romans, influenced many modern languages. Roman law systems were innovative, including concepts like 'innocent until proven guilty'. Roman engineering marvels constructed roads, aqueducts, arches, and domes. The Roman government inspired modern democratic systems with elected officials and a Senate. And finally, the spread of Christianity, which originated in the Roman Empire, had a profound impact on the Western world.

The decline of the Roman Empire involved a complex interplay of factors: Economic problems, military invasions, political instability, overexpansion, and social decay all contributed to its eventual downfall.

Rome was located in central Italy, on the Tiber River, near the Tyrrhenian Sea, a part of the Mediterranean. This strategic position granted Rome access to water, natural defenses, and control over trade routes.

Rome's strategic location provided access to water for trade and transportation, natural defenses from surrounding hills, and control over important trade routes in the Mediterranean Sea. This dominance allowed Rome to thrive and expand its influence.

In a direct democracy, citizens vote on laws and decisions directly. In a republic, citizens elect representatives who make decisions on their behalf. It's like choosing between voting for a cake and electing a baker to bring you the cake.

After abolishing the monarchy, Romans established a republic ruled by elected officials, including consuls, senators, and assemblies. This system provided a new form of government, focusing on collective decision-making.

Rome's growth began as a small village and expanded through conquests, gradually controlling territories like Greece, Gaul, and Egypt. Their empire extended throughout Europe, parts of Asia, and Africa, signifying a massive territorial expansion.

Romans used an extensive network of roads and military posts to maintain control over the empire. These systems enabled quick communication and efficient responses to threats, ensuring order and stability.

Julius Caesar's contributions included expanding Roman territory significantly. He also became a dictator, a single ruler with absolute power. His actions paved the way for Rome's transformation into an empire.

The transition from a republic to an empire was initiated by years of intense civil war. Eventually, Augustus became the first emperor in 27 BCE, effectively ending the republic and establishing the Roman Empire under imperial rule.