Roman

Question 1

What is the Colosseum also known as, and what types of events were held there?

Answer 1

The Colosseum, also known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, hosted games, gladiator fights, and animal fights, with a seating capacity of 50,000. Only 2/3 of the original structure remains today.

Question 2

What did the Twelve Tables provide to Romans?

Answer 2

They helped treat Romans as equals and gave them certain legal rights.

Question 3

How was the Roman Republic structured?

Answer 3

It had 2 elected consuls and an elected senate, functioning similarly to a president and legislature.

Question 4

How has the model of the Roman Republic influenced modern governments?

Answer 4

It served as a foundational model for many countries today.

Question 5

What are the key components of Roman concrete?

Answer 5

Mortar made of volcanic ash, lime, and seawater.

Question 6

What rare mineral forms in Roman concrete after 10 years?

Answer 6

Aluminum tobermorite, which contributes to its long-lasting strength.

Question 7

How long can Roman concrete last compared to modern concrete?

Answer 7

Roman concrete can last up to ~1000 years, while modern concrete lasts about ~50 years.

Question 8

How extensive was the Roman road system?

Answer 8

They paved 55,000 miles (88,500 km) of roads over the course of 700 years.

Question 9

What were the benefits of Roman roads?

Answer 9

They facilitated faster travel for military, commerce, and communication.

Question 10

How does the Julian calendar compare to the Gregorian calendar?

Answer 10

The Julian date is 13 days earlier than the Gregorian date (e.g., Feb. 18 Gregorian = Feb. 5 Julian).

Question 11

What were the Acta Senatus and Acta Diurnal?

Answer 11

Acta Senatus was a record of senate meetings, and Acta Diurnal was a daily gazette for the public.

Question 12

What function did aqueducts serve in Roman cities?

Answer 12

They transported running water to developed areas and contributed to complex piping systems.

Question 13

What was the purpose of Roman sewers?

Answer 13

They helped reduce flooding in urban areas.

Question 14

What was Cursus Publicus?

Answer 14

The first courier service in Rome, used for relaying messages and tax information.

Question 15

What is a hypocaust?

Answer 15

An ancient Roman central heating system found in public bathhouses, using a constantly burning fire to heat floors and water.

Question 16

How were Roman numerals utilized?

Answer 16

They were used to help price goods and services.

Question 17

What is a codex?

Answer 17

A bound book made from papyrus or parchment.

Question 18

What historical practice regarding childbirth was associated with Julius Caesar?

Answer 18

He declared that all dead or dying mothers be cut open (cesarean section) to save the child, which is now a common method.

Question 19

What medical tools were used in ancient Rome?

Answer 19

Bone forceps, obstetrical hooks, and vaginal specula.

Question 20

What was a key feature of Roman city planning?

Answer 20

Grid cities designed to control traffic flow and make commerce and production more efficient.

Question 21

What were the two main streets in Roman grid cities?

Answer 21

Cardo (north-south) and Decumanus (east-west).