The Roman Empire Timeline of Ancient Rome Geographic

The Roman Empire

Timeline of Ancient Rome

Geographic Factors of the Rise of Rome • Link between Europe, Africa and Asia; easy access to trade routes: Italian Peninsula is central in Mediterranean world (halfway between east and west) • Seclusion and protection: rugged mountains separate northern Italy from the rest of Europe which provide good protection • Agricultural Climate: mild climate, fertile land, river beds, volcanic soil, mountain deposits • Rivers: Po and Tiber allowed for transport and created borders from other peoples

The Seven Hills of Rome

• According to legend, Rome traced its roots back to Aeneas, a Trojan prince who fled from Troy’s destruction • Romulus and Remus were said to be descendents of Aeneas • The city of Rome allegedly was founded in 753 BCE and Romulus was the first of seven Etruscan Kings • Romulus was believed to be a great warrior king and started Rome’s first army and government

The Etruscans • First inhabitants of Northern Italy c. 750 BCE • Conquered Rome around 600 BCE • Skilled artisans, farmers and accomplished traders • In Rome, the Etruscans dug an enormous ditch (Great Sewer) to create a drained area named the Forum • contributed to the rise of Rome and culture

Etruscan Influence on Rom. AN Culture • • artistic styles religious practices and gods clothing Blood sports

Influence on Rome (continued) • • The Alphabet The arch Design of houses and temples Water and drainage systems

Etruscan Monarchy • First Etruscan King was Romulus • Etruscans expanded power and took control over Romans • Last Etruscan King was Tarquin the Proud= expelled by a popular rebellion in 509 BCE • Romans did not want to be ruled by kings anymore • Paved way for Rome to create a Republic