Rome 1/14 - 3/14 Flashcards
What is required of all landowners and most public officers in Rome?
Service in the Roman Army
This reflects the civic duty expected of citizens in ancient Rome.
How many heavily armored foot soldiers are in a Roman legion?
5000
This number signifies the size and organization of the Roman military.
What are smaller groups of 80 men in the Roman Army called?
Centuries
Centuries are subdivisions of a legion, facilitating command and organization.
What were the two dominant cities on the Mediterranean involved in the Punic Wars?
Carthage and Rome
The rivalry between these two cities led to significant military conflicts.
What territory did Rome take from Carthage during the Punic Wars?
Sicily
This acquisition marked a significant expansion of Roman territory.
Who was the Carthaginian general that sought revenge against Rome?
Hannibal
Hannibal is known for his strategic military tactics, including the use of elephants.
Did Hannibal ever capture Rome?
No
Despite his military successes, Hannibal was unable to seize the city of Rome.
Who was the Roman general that attacked Carthage, forcing a retreat?
Scipio
Scipio’s actions led to the eventual destruction of Carthage.
What was the result of the Punic Wars for Rome?
Rome became the dominant power on the Mediterranean
This dominance significantly affected the political landscape of the region.
Who were the two social classes in conflict during the Roman Republic?
Plebeians and Patricians
This conflict represented the struggle between the common people and the elite.
What percentage of the population in Rome was made up of slaves?
1/3
The large slave population had significant social and economic implications.
What challenge did small farmers face in the Roman Republic?
Competition against slave-run estates
This competition often forced small farmers to sell their land.
What fraction of Rome’s population were urban poor?
1/4
This highlights the economic disparity in Roman society.
What was a consequence of the rich getting richer in Rome?
The poor getting poorer
This economic divide contributed to social instability and unrest.
What caused Rome to become wealthy?
Expansion of territory
This wealth led to various social and political issues.
What is the main class conflict in Rome?
Plebians vs. Patricians
Plebians are the lower class, while Patricians are the upper class.
What types of civil unrest occurred in Rome?
Rioting to address issues
This unrest stemmed from class conflicts and dissatisfaction.
Who were the Gracchi Brothers?
Political reformers in Rome
They attempted to address social issues and land redistribution.
Who was Julius Caesar?
An extremely popular and ambitious general
He was a patrician who supported the popular party (plebeians).
What was the 1st Triumvirate?
An unofficial alliance between Caesar, Pompey, and Crassus
This alliance helped them consolidate power.
What did Julius Caesar do after serving one year as consul?
He went to Gaul
This move allowed him to gain troops, money, and popularity.
What were some of Caesar’s social reforms?
Changes calendar, redistributes land
These reforms aimed at easing overcrowding and supporting veterans and the poor.
What military reforms did Julius Caesar implement?
Continues expanding territory, increases pay for soldiers
These changes helped strengthen the military and loyalty of troops.
What economic reforms did Julius Caesar introduce?
Forgives debt, building projects to decrease unemployment
These measures aimed to stabilize the economy and support the populace.
What political reform did Julius Caesar make?
Expands senate to be more socially representative
This aimed to give more voice to different social classes.
Who were the members of the 2nd Triumvirate formed after Caesar’s death?
Lepidus, Octavian, Marc Antony
The 2nd Triumvirate was formed to stabilize Rome after Julius Caesar’s assassination.
What was the outcome of the battle of Actium?
Octavian defeats Marc Antony
This battle marked a significant turning point in the power struggle in Rome.
What title was given to Octavian after he became the ruler of Rome?
Augustus
The title Augustus means ‘revered one’ and signifies his acceptance as the sole ruler.
What major period did Augustus usher in for Rome?
Pax Romana
Pax Romana refers to a long period of relative peace and stability within the Roman Empire.
What does Pax Romana refer to?
Roman peace under imperial rule
This era was characterized by minimal expansion and a focus on internal stability.
Who are considered the ‘5 good emperors’?
Nerva, Trajan, Hadrian, Antoninus Pius, Marcus Aurelius
These emperors are noted for their benevolent and effective governance.
What improvements were made during the Pax Romana?
- Improved harbors
- Cleared forests
- Drained swamps
- Emphasis on agriculture
These improvements facilitated trade and agricultural productivity.
What characterized the vast trading network of the Pax Romana?
- Complex network of roads
- Safety on roads
- Uniform money
This network enhanced trade and communication across the empire.
What role did native people have in the military during the Pax Romana?
Use of native people in military
This practice led to the assimilation of residents into Roman culture.
Who were included as civil servants in the Roman Empire?
- Plebeians
- Former slaves
This inclusion marked a significant change in the social structure of Roman governance.
What was the original religious belief system of Rome?
Paganism influenced by Greeks
Worship of many gods was a part of everyday life in political and secular contexts.
What territory did the Roman Empire gain that was significant for Christianity?
Judea
Judea is the home of Judaism and Christianity, leading to increased exposure to monotheistic religion.
What ideas did Christianity borrow from Judaism?
Monotheism and the Ten Commandments
Christianity emphasizes a personal relationship with God and the importance of His love.
How did Jesus Christ’s teachings differ from Jewish and Roman laws?
Did not follow Jewish law or Roman laws
This led to tension with both Jewish authorities and the Roman government.
What was the outcome of Jesus’ conflict with authorities?
Jesus was killed by crucifixion
His execution was a result of being perceived as a threat.
What facilitated the spread of Christianity throughout the Roman Empire?
Pax Romana
The period of peace allowed for the spread of ideas through trade networks and missionaries.
Who was a prominent missionary that promoted Christianity?
Paul of Tarsus
Paul played a crucial role in spreading Christian teachings beyond Jewish communities.
What significant action did the Roman Senate take against Christians in 202 AD?
Banned Romans from converting upon penalty of death
This led to increased persecution and the rise of martyrs.
What was the appeal of Christianity during its spread?
Appealing teachings and influence of martyrs
Martyrs were killed for their beliefs, inspiring others to convert.
What pagan elements were introduced into Christianity?
Days of the week, religious symbols, and holidays
This integration made Christianity more relatable to pagans.
What was Emperor Constantine’s famous statement about victory?
By this sign you shall conquer
This phrase is associated with his vision before a decisive battle.
What significant decree did Emperor Constantine issue regarding Christians?
Edict of Milan ends persecution of Christians
This marked a turning point for Christianity in the Roman Empire.
When did Emperor Constantine officially become a Christian?
On his deathbed
Despite his support for Christianity, he did not convert until late in life.
What did Theodosius declare about Christianity 50 years after Constantine?
Christianity as the official religion
This solidified the status of Christianity within the Roman Empire.
What is Greco-Roman culture?
Blend of Greek, Hellenistic (Greek, Persian, India, Egyptian) & Roman Styles
What are frescoes in Roman art?
Painted directly onto wall
Define mosaics in the context of Roman art.
Small, puzzle-like pieces
What is bas relief?
Images project from flat background
Name a significant example of Roman architecture.
Roman Colosseum
List three engineering achievements of the Romans.
- Concrete
- Arches (vaulted ceiling/domes)
- Roads
What philosophical school is associated with Stoicism?
Virtue, duty, moderation, endurance
What is a key principle of Roman law?
Law applies equally and fairly to all
How does Roman law influence modern legal systems?
Basis for US Legal system
What does ‘innocent until proven guilty’ signify in Roman law?
A principle that protects the accused
What is meant by ‘face your accuser’ in Roman law?
Right to confront witnesses
What does ‘guilt clearer than daylight’ imply in Roman law?
Standard of evidence required for conviction
What language is the basis for Romance languages?
Latin
What was a political reason for the weakening of Rome?
Too large to govern effectively
This made it difficult to manage the vast territories and populations.
How many emperors ruled Rome in 75 years, indicating political instability?
20 emperors
This highlights the corruption and dangerous nature of ruling during that period.
What significant action did Diocletian take regarding the Roman Empire?
He split the empire into east and west
This division aimed to improve governance and control.
Who moved the capital of the Roman Empire to the east?
Constantine
This move solidified the importance of the eastern part of the empire.
What social issue contributed to the weakening of Rome?
Gap between classes
This disparity led to social unrest and dissatisfaction.
What were collegia and what restriction was placed on them?
Prohibited from leaving job (hereditary)
This system created a lack of mobility and opportunity.
How did Christianity affect the perception of emperors?
Emperor no longer divine
The church leaders gained influence as a result.
What economic problem did Rome face due to poor harvests?
Lack of food supply
This led to famine and dissatisfaction among the populace.
What was a consequence of no more war plunder?
Loss of stolen goods
This diminished the wealth that supported the economy.
What interrupted trade in the Roman Empire?
Pirates and bandits
This further weakened economic stability.
What financial burden did the Roman citizens face?
Crushing taxes
High taxes contributed to the economic strain on the populace.
What military issue arose from the vast territory of the Roman Empire?
Territory too vast
This made defense and control difficult.
What was a significant problem regarding soldiers’ loyalty?
Lack of loyalty among soldiers
This was a critical factor in military effectiveness.
What happened to law funds for defense in the Roman Empire?
Leave borders weak
Insufficient funding compromised border security.
What was the original name of the Byzantine Empire?
Greek city-state
The Byzantine Empire was originally part of a Greek city-state before becoming integrated into the Roman Empire.
What was Constantinople known for?
Libraries and museums
Constantinople was a cultural hub with significant contributions to art and education.
Who was Justinian?
Emperor of the Byzantine Empire with humble origins
Justinian is known for his legal reforms and efforts to expand the empire.
What role did Theodora play in the Byzantine Empire?
Improved status of women and was instrumental in the Nika Rebellion
Theodora was a powerful empress who influenced many social reforms.
Who was Belisarius?
A very capable military strategist
Belisarius played a crucial role in regaining lost Roman territories.
What type of government did the Byzantine Empire have?
Autocratic
The Byzantine Empire was characterized by strong central authority.
What was Justinian’s Code based on?
Roman Law
Justinian’s Code served as a foundation for legal systems in many modern states.
What was a significant military innovation of the Byzantine Empire?
Greek Fire
Greek Fire was a highly effective incendiary weapon used by the Byzantine navy.
What was the economic status of the Byzantine Empire?
Extremely wealthy, with trade controlled by the government
The Byzantine Empire’s economy was robust, often leading to conflicts with other powers.
What architectural masterpiece is associated with the Byzantine Empire?
Hagia Sophia
The Hagia Sophia is a renowned example of Byzantine architecture and art.
Fill in the blank: The Byzantine Empire was often _______.
invaded
Despite its wealth and strong military, the Byzantine Empire faced numerous invasions throughout its history.
What type of military education did the Byzantine Empire emphasize?
Military schools/manuals
The Byzantine Empire invested in military education to enhance its military effectiveness.
True or False: The Byzantine Empire was known for its democratic government.
False
The Byzantine Empire was characterized by autocratic rule rather than democracy.
What type of government characterized the West after Rome’s fall?
Weak central government, strong local government
This led to small self-sufficient communities.
Describe the communities in the West after Rome’s fall.
Small self-sufficient communities
These communities were often isolated and had limited interaction.
What was the state of written language in the West after Rome’s fall?
Little to no written language
This contributed to limited advancements in various fields.
What was the primary holiday celebrated in the West after Rome’s fall?
Christmas
It became the number one holiday among Christians.
In what language were church services conducted in the West?
Latin
This was a remnant of Roman traditions.
What was the stance on marriage for priests in the West?
Priests can’t marry
This was a significant rule in the Roman Catholic Church.
Was divorce permitted in the West after Rome’s fall?
No divorce
This reflects the strict moral codes of the time.
Who ruled over bishops in the West after Rome’s fall?
Pope
The pope claimed ultimate authority over the church.
What claim did the pope make in relation to church authority?
Ultimate authority
This claim was central to the power structure of the Roman Catholic Church.
What type of religious images were allowed in the West?
Icons
The use of icons was a significant aspect of religious practice.
What was the relationship between church and government in the West?
Blurry line between church & government
This confusion often led to conflicts of interest.
What denomination emerged in the West after Rome’s fall?
Roman Catholics
This denomination became the dominant form of Christianity in the West.
What type of government did the East have?
Strong central government
How was the culture and education in the East described?
Highly cultured, highly educated
What was the predominant religion in the East?
Christians
What is the #1 holiday celebrated in the East?
Easter
In what language were services conducted in the East?
Local language
Fill in the blank: In the East, priests can _______.
marry
True or False: Divorce is not permitted in the East.
False
Who rules with the patriarch in the East?
Other bishops
What was the East’s stance on icons?
Icons not good
Who has ultimate authority in the East?
Emperor
What is the name of the church in the East?
Eastern Orthodox Church
