Unit 5: Ancient Rome

What effect did the system of roads have on the Roman Empire?

Easier way for armies to march to battles to conquer more land.

How were Jesus' teachings at odds with Roman values and religious ideas? Why might the Romans have felt threatened by Jesus?

Jesus taught monotheism Romans taught polytheism. Christianity appealed to the poor.

Which more likely led to the decline of the Roman Empire, the economy or military?

Military: Lack of funding meant lack of supplies which meant soldiers became loyal to just generals, Rome had to hire mercenaries.

What were the similarities and differences between Rome's patricians and plebeians?

Patricians were rich plebeians were poor. Patricians allowed in senate or as consuls. Plebeians had assemblies. Both allowed to vote.

Describe the makeup of the Roman Republic. How is it similar to the United States today?

Roman Republic: Senate, consuls, and assemblies U.S.: President, congress, Supreme Court

Consider the evolution of Roman republican government. What were the similarities and differences with the political evolution of the Greek polis?

Similarity: Both democracies Difference: Greek=Direct democracy Rome=Representative democracy

What aspects of Roman life might signal future problems for the empire?

The major rich poor gap, government debt, bad harvest, and a disloyal military.

What was the Pax Romana? Who started it and what were some of the significant aspects?

The time of peace in Rome. Caesar Augustus started it. There were no civil wars

How would limiting the size of Rome's estates help the poor?

Think Hayden's Hardware.

Why is law considered the most lasting of Roman contributions?

We still use their law today