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The Roman Republic

The Roman Republic, established after the expulsion of Tarquin the Proud, was characterized by a government where power rested with free-born male citizens, primarily patricians, while plebeians fought for representation and rights. The Roman army played a crucial role in the Republic's expansion, maintaining discipline and organization as it conquered territories across Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East. The Punic Wars against Carthage solidified Rome's dominance in the Mediterranean, culminating in the complete destruction of Carthage and the establishment of Roman control over North Africa.

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18 views3 pages

The Roman Republic

The Roman Republic, established after the expulsion of Tarquin the Proud, was characterized by a government where power rested with free-born male citizens, primarily patricians, while plebeians fought for representation and rights. The Roman army played a crucial role in the Republic's expansion, maintaining discipline and organization as it conquered territories across Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East. The Punic Wars against Carthage solidified Rome's dominance in the Mediterranean, culminating in the complete destruction of Carthage and the establishment of Roman control over North Africa.

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mulandisney
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THE ROMAN REPUBLIC 509 - 27 BC

Most of our knowledge about Rome’s early history comes from Titus Livius (Livy) (59 BC – 17 AD)
and his work History of Rome from Its Foundation.

Following the expulsion of Tarquin the Proud, Rome came under the rule of wealthy patrician
families. Over time, a republic — res publica, meaning "public affairs"—was established. This form
of government allowed power to rest with citizens who had the right to vote for their leaders.
However, voting rights were granted only to free-born male citizens.
RULE BY THE MANY

“Rome has grown since its humble beginnings that it is now overwhelmed by its own greatness.” Livy

Political institutions:
Most government positions were initially reserved for patricians, who inherited their power and
social status. They claimed that their noble ancestry granted them the authority to make laws for
Rome, holding key offices such as consul and senator.

In response, the plebeians formed their own assembly and elected representatives known as
tribunes. These officials were tasked with protecting plebeian rights from unjust actions by
patrician authorities.

Over time, the plebeians


successfully pushed for the
creation of a written legal code,
resulting in The Twelve Tables.

Rome eventually developed a


balanced government, combining
the best elements of monarchy
(rule by a king), aristocracy (rule by
the nobility), and democracy (rule
by the people).
Roman Army:
1. Importance of the Roman Army:

The Roman army was a key factor in Rome’s


expansion and dominance.
It was highly disciplined, well-trained, and organized.
Helped Rome control vast territories and defend its
borders.

2. Structure of the Roman Army:

Infantry: heavy (elite soldiers) and light (dart throwers)


Cavalry: covered the flanks
Legions: The main unit of the Roman army, consisting of about 5,000 soldiers.

3. Types of Soldiers:

Legionaries: Roman citizens who served as heavy infantry.


Auxiliaries: Non-Roman citizens who served in specialized roles. After 25 years of service, they
could gain citizenship.
RULE BY THE MANY

4. Training & Discipline:

Soldiers trained daily in weapons, marching, and battle tactics.


Punishments were harsh to maintain discipline.
Roman soldiers had to march up to 30 km per day carrying heavy equipment.

Rome spreads its power:


Rome expanded as it came into conflict with surrounding city-states, kingdoms, and empires and
had to create ways to incorporate these new territories and populations. The Romans did not try
to turn everyone they conquered into a Roman. For the most part, cities and regions that came
under Roman control were allowed to maintain their existing cultural and political institutions. The
only major requirement that Rome imposed on its defeated enemies was that they provide soldiers
for military campaigns.

During the Roman Republic (509–27 BC), Rome expanded significantly, acquiring many territories
across Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East. Here are the major regions (modern-day
countries) that came under Roman control during this period:

1. Italy (before 264 BC)


2. Western Mediterranean (264–146 BC) – Spain (Hispania), France (Southern Gaul) Tunisia, Algeria,
Libya (Carthage)
3. Eastern Mediterranean (200–133 BC) – Greek and Hellenistic Conquests
Greece – (214–148 BC)
Turkey (Asia Minor)
Egypt
4. Northern Expansion (125–51 BC)
France (Gaul)
Switzerland, Belgium, parts of Germany
RULE BY THE MANY

5. Balkan and Eastern Conquests (168–30 BC)


Macedonia, Albania, Kosovo, Bosnia
Serbia, Montenegro, Bulgaria, Romania
Syria, Lebanon, Israel, Jordan

By the end of the Roman Republic (27 BC), Rome controlled most of Western Europe, North Africa,
and parts of the Middle East, laying the foundation for the Roman Empire.

The Punic Wars (264–146 BC)


The Punic Wars were a series of three wars fought between Rome and Carthage for control of the
Mediterranean. These wars lasted from 264 BC to 146 BC and ended with Rome's victory.

1. The First Punic War (264–241 BC)


Cause: Rome and Carthage fought for control over Sicily.
Rome built a navy for the first time, using a captured Carthaginian ship as a model.
Result: Rome won and took control of Sicily, Corsica, and Sardinia.

2.The Second Punic War (218–201 BC)


Cause: Rome challenged Carthage’s expansion in Spain.
Hannibal’s Invasion of Italy (218 BC)
The Roman general Scipio Africanus invaded North Africa, forcing Hannibal to retreat.
Result: - Rome won and took Spain from Carthage, Carthage had to disarm, pay tribute, and
lose its navy. Hannibal fled and later committed suicide.

4. The Third Punic War (149–146 BC)


Cause: Rome wanted to destroy Carthage permanently.
Rome sieged Carthage for three years.
Carthage was completely destroyed. Rome gained full control over North Africa.

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