Questions and Answers
What is an orator?
What is a foundation myth?
society's folk tale about how it originated
What was the Pax Romana?
the long period of peace experienced under the rule of the Roman Empire
What is a peninsula?
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What is a republic?
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Who are Romulus and Remus?
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What does 'The Roman Empire' refer to?
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What geographical advantages did Rome have?
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Ancient Romans believed their city had been founded by:
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The story of the city's origins was based on:
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Rome's geographic advantages included its location on the:
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What role did geography play in Rome's trade?
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When did Rome become a republic?
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Match the following social classes of Rome with their descriptions:
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What were the Twelve Tables?
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What characterized the patrician class?
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What characterized the plebeian class?
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Describe the three branches of the Roman government.
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Which feature of the Roman government is also found in the US government?
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Study Notes
Key Concepts of the Republic of Rome
- Orator: A skilled and eloquent speaker, significant in Roman politics and public life.
- Foundation Myth: A cultural narrative explaining the origins of Rome, specifically the tale of Romulus and Remus.
- Pax Romana: An extended period of peace and stability across the Roman Empire, facilitating trade and cultural exchange.
Geography and its Impact
- Peninsula: Rome is situated on a landmass surrounded by water on three sides, enhancing trade opportunities and defense.
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Geographical Advantages:
- Located on the Tiber River, providing access to the sea.
- Surrounded by hills and mountains, offering natural protection against invasions.
- Fertile land supporting agriculture, crucial for sustaining the city's population.
Foundation of the Roman Republic
- Rome established its republic in 509 BCE, marking a shift to a government run by elected representatives.
- The concept of a republic was inspired by earlier Greek civilizations.
Social Structure
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Patricians:
- Wealthy, noble class, holding significant political power.
- Controlled the Senate and had privileges in political representation.
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Plebeians:
- Common citizens including merchants, farmers, and laborers.
- Elected representatives called tribunes to voice their concerns and protect their rights.
- Advocated for the creation of laws, leading to the Twelve Tables.
Legal Framework
- The Twelve Tables: Rome's first set of written laws, which were publicly displayed on bronze tablets to educate citizens about their rights and responsibilities.
Roman Governance
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Three-Branch Government Structure:
- Executive Branch: Led by two consuls, primarily patricians with military command.
- Legislative Branch: Comprised of a Senate (patricians) and assemblies (plebeians) with various powers, including lifetime service for some.
- Judicial Branch: Consisted of eight praetors, serving one-year terms to oversee legal matters.
Expansion and Influence
- Starting around 300 BCE, Rome began territorial expansion, which played a crucial role in enhancing its influence and reach within the Mediterranean region.
- Cultural exchange: Proximity to Greece influenced Roman culture, arts, and philosophy.
Comparison of Government
- Similarities with the U.S. Government:
- Both feature a separation of powers among different branches, ensuring checks and balances in governance.
- Only certain branches have limitations based on class, highlighting societal structures in both systems.
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Description
Test your knowledge of key terms from Unit 8 Lesson 1 about the Republic of Rome. This quiz features important vocabulary like 'orator', 'foundation myth', and 'Pax Romana'. Use these flashcards to deepen your understanding of Roman history and culture.
