Romans

Romans were the citizens of the Roman Empire, a political entity that originated from the city-state of Rome in 753 BC, and eventually dominated the Mediterranean world and beyond until its fall in AD 476. The Romans are known for their significant contributions to law, politics, architecture, literature, and warfare, which have had a lasting impact on the modern world.

History

The history of the Romans is often divided into three main periods: the Roman Kingdom (753–509 BC), the Roman Republic (509–27 BC), and the Roman Empire (27 BC–AD 476).

Roman Kingdom

The Roman Kingdom was the earliest period in the history of Rome. According to legend, Rome was founded by Romulus and Remus, twin brothers who were raised by a she-wolf. The kingdom was ruled by seven kings, the last of whom, Lucius Tarquinius Superbus, was overthrown in a popular uprising.

Roman Republic

The Roman Republic was established in 509 BC following the overthrow of the monarchy. It was a period of expansion and conquest, with Rome gradually extending its control over the entire Mediterranean region. The Republic was marked by social and political strife, culminating in the assassination of Julius Caesar in 44 BC.

Roman Empire

The Roman Empire was established in 27 BC when Augustus became the first Roman Emperor. This period was marked by peace and prosperity, known as the Pax Romana. The empire reached its greatest extent under Emperor Trajan in AD 117. The decline of the Roman Empire is traditionally dated to AD 476, when the last Roman Emperor, Romulus Augustulus, was deposed.

Society and Culture

Roman society was highly stratified, with a clear distinction between the patricians, the aristocratic ruling class, and the plebeians, the common people. Slavery was also a significant part of Roman society.

The Romans made significant contributions to architecture, with structures like the Colosseum, the Pantheon, and the aqueducts standing as testaments to their engineering skills. They also excelled in literature, with authors like Virgil, Horace, and Ovid producing works that are still read and studied today.

Roman religion was polytheistic, with a pantheon of gods and goddesses headed by Jupiter. The Romans also adopted and adapted gods from the cultures they conquered.

Legacy

The legacy of the Romans is vast and varied. Their legal system forms the basis of many modern legal codes, and their political structures have influenced the development of modern democratic institutions. Their architectural and engineering feats continue to inspire and influence modern architecture.