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Foundations of the Roman Republic. 509-343BCE. The Founding of Rome. Myth: Rome founded in 753BCE by Romulus and Remus (raised by a she-wolf). Romulus kills Remus after a dispute and he then establishes Rome.
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Foundations of the Roman Republic 509-343BCE
The Founding of Rome • Myth: Rome founded in 753BCE by Romulus and Remus (raised by a she-wolf). Romulus kills Remus after a dispute and he then establishes Rome. • Evidence: Archaeology tells us that by the mid-8th C. BCE a settlement existed on the Palatine Hill (centremost hill of the seven hills of Rome).
Etruscans take control • Ruled from approx. 616-509BCE. • Civilised people who controlled a large proportion of Italy. • Took control of Rome due to its prime location on the Tiber River.
The Founding of the Republic • Popular history suggests that around 509BCE the Etruscan kings were expelled by revolution and a Republic was established. • However, evolutionary change is just as plausible – Rome underwent a gradual process on its path to a Republic.
Conflict of the Orders • A class struggle between Patricians and Plebeians from 494-287BCE. • Plebeians well organised – collective action • A number of important positions are gained and laws are passed during this period (for the Plebeians). • This period can be defined as the Plebeian struggle for equality and justice.
The Italian Conquests • First Phase (509-390BCE) • Rome’s territory doubled. • Treaty signed with the Latin League – Rome has stable allies for 150 years • Second Phase (390-338BCE) • Rome controlled 7500 sq km and one million people. • Third Phase (338-290BCE) • Roman military tactics change from the Phalanx (Greek) to the Maniple (more flexible). • Road building becomes central to controlling the Latin and Roman colonies.
Rome takes control of Southern Italy – Pyrrhic Wars • 280-275BCE – a series of battles with the Greek State of Epirus – King Pyrrhus • Rome wins and takes control of Southern Italy.
