Ancient Rome Study Guide

Question 1

Romulus and the Kingdom of Rome

Answer 1

According to legend, Aeneus moved to Italy after the Trojan War. Aeneid’s grandsons, Romulus and Remus grew up to found Rome. Romulus killed Remus to become Rome’s first king. Tarquin was such a bad king the Romans overthrew him and established a Republic.

Question 2

The Roman Republic Founded

Answer 2

In the Republic, power was split between different people and groups. Rome fought and won wars against the Latin and Samnites. The city of Rome grew and the Plebeians (lower class Romans) demanded their rights.

Question 3

The Punic Wars and Eastward Expansion

Answer 3

In the First Punic War, Rome took Sicily from Carthage. In the Second Punic War, Rome beat Carthage’s general Hannibal and dominated them. In the Third Punic War, Rome totally destroyed Carthage. Rome conquered Greece and fought further in the East. Marius and Sulla fought a civil war in Rome and throughout the empire.

Question 4

Julius Caesar

Answer 4

Caesar was an important general in Rome who became dictator for life. First Triumvirate: Caesar allied with Pompey for his military skill, Crassus for his money. Crassus died and Pompey was killed by Caesar. Caesar declared himself Rome’s Dictator for Life. Caesar was murdered in the Senate by people who feared his power.

Question 5

Augustus Caesar

Answer 5

Augustus (or Octavian) was Julius Caesar’s adopted son who ruled after him. Second Triumvirate: Augustus allied with Marc Antony and Lepidus. Lepidus was kicked out of the Triumvirate and Marc Antony was killed by Augustus. Augustus is considered Rome’s first emperor. Augustus built roads and bridges and expanded the empire. “Pax Romana” means “Roman Peace” and was a time when Rome ensured peace. Augustus died and Tiberius took over as emperor.

Question 6

The Roman Republic: Why did the Roman Republic fall?

Answer 6

A large civil war between Sulla and Marius. Military leaders like Caesar and Pompey had a lot of power. Armies were loyal to people, not Rome itself. The Senate gave up its own power. Lots of fighting among the rich and poor. Many wars against Rome’s enemies.