The document provides an overview of the history and government of ancient Rome from its origins to the establishment of the Roman Republic. It describes how the Italian peninsula was inhabited in early times by farmers, herdsmen, and various ethnic groups including the Etruscans. Rome was founded by Romulus and Remus around 750 BCE and grew to become a city that drew strongly from Etruscan culture. Early Rome was ruled by kings who had absolute power over the government and family structures. Over time, the monarchy transitioned to a republican form of government with consuls, senators, and citizen assemblies. Social classes of patricians and plebians emerged, causing conflicts that led to legal reforms establishing rights

1. Ancient Rome ...the dream of an empire History of Western Civilization/Fall 2007

2. The Italian Peninsula… ideal location

6. Italian Peninsula at the dawn of Rome…

12. Early Government Structure… The King (Absolute) Senate (Council of Elders, “clan confederacy”) Assembly (All male citizens [both parents Roman])

16. Relics of expansion: roads

20. The Roman Republic Era

22. New Government Forms 2 Consuls (Patricians; Rulers of Rome; elected for a 1 year term) evolved to… Preconsuls (Extended terms during military campaigns) Plus… Quaestors (Financial Officers) Praetor (Jusifical Military Official) Censor (Tax officiers)