Ancient Rome Flashcards
What did the Roman Empire consist of
Countries that surrounded Italy and had sea borders with the Mediterranean
- furthest point of empire reached as far as Britannia
What problems did the vast stretch of countries covered in the Roman Empire cause?
System of law and order in Rome as it two very different types of area to manage
Main crimes in Ancient Rome
Robbery and mugging Burglary and theft Slaves running away Fraud Arson Rioting Murder
Why did robbery and mugging s occur
A diverse community caused conflict ( rich aristocrats and slaves) = poverty vs wealth
What was burglary and theft ?
Crimes against property
E.g. Breaking in to someone’s home
Why did slaves run away
In society slavery was legal and slaves treated savagely so them running away wasn’t surprising
What common fraud took place in Ancient Rome?
Lie about weights of products such as bread e.g. Charge £1 for 1lb of bread but only give you 3/4lb of the bread
Why was arson common
Hot dry city with houses built close together so fires once purposely lit spread easy
Where did rioting commonly take place
Events that encouraged large group invites, i.e. Chariot racing often got out of hand
Info regarding murder
Wasn’t the most common but still significant.Even roman emperors killed on a regular basis
How were people made aware of the law
Written down and made public on what was known as the twelve tables. In order to make them common knowledge school children were taught to read and write by copying the twelve tables. Also displayed in public places for everyone to see.
Punishments for minor crimes?
Whipping/flogging
Confiscation of property
Fines to replay the cost of the stolen goods
Major crimes (arson,murder,stealing from a temple) punishments?
EXECUTION, such as: Crucifixion Sent to fight in games Pushed off cliff Have molten poured down your throat
How is the law system unfair
If nobles were convicted of major crimes they could go into exile rather than be executed
Slaves punishments generally harsh crucifixion to deter other slaves from committing crimes.Often all members of a slaves household would be executed if they had committed s crime
Legionnaires form of punishments
In order to discourage desertion from the army a soldier who was caught trying to leave would be brought back and while legion punished. This punishment was known as decimation. It involved killing every 10th man in the legion.