Introduction
Ancient Rome is one of the most fascinating cultures in history. It was an immensely powerful and influential empire that spanned much of the known world for centuries. It is also incredibly old. Its heyday was from about 500 BC to the fourth century AD, and its legacy still influences us today. So, when was ancient Rome BC?
Though it’s hard to pinpoint an exact date of when ancient Rome was BC, historians have agreed that it began by around 750 BC. This date marks the founding of what would become the Roman Empire, centered around Rome and the surrounding regions in the Italian peninsula. The city is thought to have been established by a group of Trojan War refugees led by the legendary figure Aeneas. At this point, Rome was still a small, tribal city-state with a monarchy system of government.
By the middle of the sixth century BC, Rome had become more powerful and expanded its rule over the Italian peninsula. It was at this point that it evolved from a monarchy to an oligarchy, with the Roman Republic being formed. The Republic was a period of growth and stability that allowed Rome to bring other surrounding civilizations under its rule. This period saw Rome rapidly expand its territories, until eventually it was the dominant power in the Mediterranean world.
Phases of the Roman Republic
The Roman Republic was a period of growth and change, so there were various distinct phases. This period is typically split up into three distinct eras: The Archaic Period (753-509 BC), The Early Republic (509-280 BC), and The Late Republic (280-31 BC).
During the Archaic Period, Rome was transitioning from a monarchy to a republic. This period saw numerous social, cultural, and political changes, including the establishment of the Senate, the Twelve Tables, and the Latin League.
The Early Republic saw the growth of Roman power, with the expansion of its territories and the establishment of its legions. This period also saw Rome emerge as a major trading force in the Mediterranean, and its economy and society began to thrive.
The Late Republic was one of turmoil and instability. General unrest, political corruption, civil wars and internal struggles for power marked this period. It ended up being the beginning of the end for Rome, with Julius Caesar becoming the dictator in 44 BC.
Role of Julius Caeser
Julius Caesar is famously remembered as the one who helped transition the Roman Republic into an empire. After becoming the de facto dictator of the Republic in 44 BC, he quickly reshaped Rome and its territories, bringing many surrounding regions through a combination of alliances and military victories. He famously declared himself Emperor in 27 BC and died in 44 BC.
Caesar was a of immense importance to Rome, as he not only brought stability and prosperity to the Republic, but also put into effect many reforms, such as monetary reforms and the adoption of the Julian Calendar. He also helped to create the political structure of the empire, with the Senate and the imperial court taking on positions of power.
The Republican period largely ended with the death of Julius Caesar, and the imperial era began. This is generally considered to be the start of ancient Rome, when it was truly a powerful empire. This period lasted until the fifth century AD, although the Western Empire eventually fell in the late 5th century.
Roman Empire Expansion and Decline
The Roman Empire began to take shape after the death of Julius Caesar, and the Empire rapidly grew throughout the first and second centuries AD. During this time, Rome expanded its territories and brought much of Europe, the Middle East and North Africa under its rule. This was also the Golden Age of Rome, with its economy and culture thriving.
However, from the third century onwards Rome slowly began to decline. This was due to a combination of factors, such as financial and military issues, as well as internal strife and political turmoil. This eventually led to its downfall in the fifth century AD, and the Western Empire fell.
Cultural Legacy of Ancient Rome
While the Roman Empire may have fallen, its influence and legacy lives on. Many aspects of Roman culture, such as its art, architecture, literature and language, continue to shape our contemporary world. This is especially true in the areas of law, government and politics. Even our very calendar is based on the Julian calendar that Julius Caesar put into effect.
In addition, many traditions and customs that we still observe today can be traced back to Roman culture, such as the celebration of Saturnalia, the wedding ceremony, and the practice of wearing rings to signify marriage. Even the classic image of a gladiator fighting in the arena can still be seen in movies and pop culture today.
Modern Day Political Influence
Rome’s influence can still be seen in the political systems and governments of the modern world. Its ideals of democracy, government by the consent of the people and the rule of law have been adopted by many governments throughout the world. Even the United States, which is often thought of as very modern and progressive, is built on some of the same ideals found in the Roman Republic.
The US Constitution, for example, draws its inspiration from some of the same documents and laws that Rome put into effect. The idea of checks and balances, and the three branches of government, are also derived from Rome’s political system. The US Senate is even modeled after the Roman Senate, with the Senators serving as representatives of the people.
Conclusion
Ancient Rome has left a fascinating imprint on the world, one that is still clearly visible today. Its history, culture and political system have shaped modern society, and its legacy continues to inspire and influence us. When it comes to the actual date of when Rome was BC, historians have agreed that it began by around 750 BC. From here, Rome evolved from a small, tribal city-state monarchy to the most powerful empire that the world had ever seen. Its legacy continues in its culture, government and politics, and it still influences us today.
