Background Information
In ancient Rome, the population was divided into two parts, the upper class and the lower class. The upper class consisted of wealthy landowners, prominent government officials, and upper-middle-class citizens. The lower class was made up of the poorer citizens, farmers, and slaves. Roman society was divided along these social divisions and each class had different responsibilities and obligations. This social hierarchy was in place for hundreds of years and remains the basis of much of modern day social classification.
Relevant Data
To understand the social divisions in ancient Rome, it is important to look at the types of occupations that each class held. According to historians, the upper class included the patricians, or noble families, who had the most power and prestige. Below the patricians were the equestrians, who were wealthy land-owners and merchants. These two classes made up the upper class. The next class was made up of the plebeians, who were the poorer citizens and farmers. At the lowest level were the slaves, who often served other families.
Perspectives from Experts
Experts agree that the social divisions in ancient Rome played an important role in the development of Roman society. According to Margaret Barker, a professor of history at the University of Pennsylvania, these social divisions created a power structure in which wealthy landowners and patricians had the most influence. This allowed the upper class to maintain their power and privileges, while the lower classes existed in a much less privileged position.
Analysis and Own Insights
It is clear that the social divisions in ancient Rome were very pronounced and had a significant impact on the development of the Roman civilization. The upper class was given preferential treatment and access to resources, while the lower classes were often treated as second-class citizens. This system of social stratification has been mirrored in the modern day world and has contributed to the widening gap between those in the upper classes and those in the lower classes.
Educating and Engaging the Reader
The social divisions in ancient Rome are reflective of the larger issues that are still plaguing society today. The disparity between the upper classes and the lower classes is still very apparent, and this is largely due to the fact that the same type of social systems are still in place. To help alleviate this divide, it is important that we recognize the need for greater economic mobility and fairer opportunities for access and advancement.
Using Emotional Triggers
The realization that such a pronounced division of classes existed in the past can be emotionally jarring. It is not uncommon for us to think of ancient times as simpler times where the wealthy and the poor could live side-by-side in harmony. The truth is, these divisions have been around for centuries and are still impacting society today. It is our duty to recognize this and do whatever we can to make sure that our society is more equitable and just for all of its citizens.
Active Voice
Ancient Rome recognized and promoted social divisions between the upper classes and the lower classes. They believed that this division was necessary in order to maintain a healthy, functioning society. Unfortunately, this same level of division still exists today and we must continue to strive for greater economic mobility and fairer access to opportunity in order to ensure a more equitable and just society.
Beyond Social Divisions
In addition to social divisions, ancient Rome also maintained a complex legal system that still influences many aspects of modern law. Unlike the American legal system which is heavily based on the English common law, Roman law was far more intricate and included much more nuanced regulations. This legal system was based on the Twelve Tables, which were the first codified laws. These laws dictated the rights and responsibilities of the citizens, as well as punishments for breaking the law.
Influence on Modern Government
The Roman Republic and its form of government also heavily influenced many aspects of modern governmental structures. The system of three branches of government – executive, legislative, and judicial – is a direct result of the Roman system. Additionally, the Roman Senate provided a model for modern legislatures, as well as the electoral college used in many democratic countries.
Economic Contributions
Ancient Rome also had an impact on the development of the modern economy. The concept of money as currency was developed during the Roman Empire, and this was a major factor in their success as an economic power. Additionally, the Roman Empire was the first to institute a universal system of taxation that was used to fund a variety of public works projects. This system is still in place today in many countries around the world.
Cultural Contributions
The legacy of ancient Rome can be seen in many aspects of the modern world, from art and architecture to language and literature. The Romans prized education and the arts, and their cultural contributions have had an immense influence on our world today. We can also thank the Romans for the invention of concrete, which is still one of the most important building materials used today.
