Trade influence
The Mediterranean Sea was vitally important to Ancient Rome in terms of trade. This was due to the advantage of having a large waterfront, making Roman trade activities in the Mediterranean very efficient. The sea was a major artery for the trading of goods between Rome and other countries in the region. By having safe maritime routes, the Romans were able to expand their empire and economic influence. They used sea vessels to transport goods, which allowed for speedier trading than land transportation.
Goods such as olive oil, spices, grains and other agricultural products were heavily traded. Exported goods included wine, wheat, cheese, and other preserved food items. Rome also traded marble and other stone structures, including columns and other architectural elements, which were of great importance to the construction of the monuments of Ancient Rome.
A significant number of Roman merchants made their wealth by trading goods. They provided a valuable source of income for the Roman Empire and its citizens. The trade network was so successful and far-reaching that Roman coins were accepted as currency in neighboring countries as well.
Military influence
The Mediterranean also had a great influence on Roman militarism. Rome’s navy, the Classis Romana, helped to expand the empire and maintain control of its borders under the Pax Romana. This naval force of warships and smaller vessels was able to keep Roman authority throughout the Mediterranean.
Roman military commanders were expert strategists who made use of Egypt’s vast network of canals and rivers to cross into Libya, bypassing the Muslim world to the South. Other naval military engagements took place against other Mediterranean powers such as Carthage, allowing Rome to expand its reach to Spain, North Africa and the Mediterranean islands.
In addition to its naval forces, Roman armies marched through the Mediterranean region, reaching places like Britain and the Middle East. This enabled Rome to establish itself as the dominant superpower in the Mediterranean, and remain in that position for centuries.
Cultural influence
The Romans were open to different cultures, languages, and religions. The Mediterranean Sea was a source of cultural exchange for ancient Rome. The languages spoken in different lands were adapted to create Latin, which became the empire’s official language. Moreover, through different religions and gods, the Mediterranean Sea brought influences from Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East.
The Mediterranean Sea also gave rise to certain forms of Roman art. Hildesheim, Germany’s Castellum Trosullum, was created in the 4th century by Roman traders, who were inspired by the blue and white ceramic wares and glasswork imported from the Eastern Mediterranean. The mosaic art in the Pantheon of Rome is reflective of the sea’s influence on Roman art.
Political influence
The Mediterranean also played a role in the political structure of Ancient Rome. Rome’s government was set up to be closely linked to the Mediterranean Sea, and it exerted a great deal of control over the region. The Roman Senate was the political body responsible for overseeing and helping the growth of the Roman Empire. This was done by establishing pro-Roman trading colonies that exported grain, olive oil, and wine to the Roman citizens.
The trade opportunities and political influence of the Mediterranean broadened Roman horizons more and more as the empire spread. The Roman Empire was so large that at one point, it spanned three continents. The Mediterranean Sea was the gateway to this incredible expanse.
Economic influence
The Mediterranean was a key factor in the economic growth of Ancient Rome. With the help of the abundant resources of the sea, the people of Rome were able to produce and trade a variety of goods and services. This led to an increased standard of living and a higher GDP.
The Romans also used their naval forces to protect their trade routes, which enabled them to maintain a profitable trading system with other countries. In addition, by developing an extensive maritime network, the Romans were able to efficiently deliver goods domestically and abroad.
The port towns of the Mediterranean were particularly beneficial to the Roman economy, providing access to resources and raw materials necessary for the functioning of the Roman state. These ports also provided employment opportunities for labourers, furthering economic growth and prosperity.
Logistic influence
The Mediterranean was also important for transportation in Ancient Rome. Rome was able to connect their cities and towns with ports located around the Sea. This made travel, transportation of goods and commerce more effective. The Romans would use their vast array of ships and sailors to travel across the Mediterranean to different ports, where they could resupply, trade and even engage in battles with opposing forces.
In addition, Rome used the Mediterranean to gain intelligence on their enemies. Roman spies were able to use their connections in the Mediterranean to gain information on the activities of foreign nations in the region. This was useful in determining the Roman’s next move and predicting the movements of their enemies.
Religious influence
The Mediterranean Sea had a great impact on Roman religion. The expansion of Rome was seen as a sign of divine favor and was celebrated through festivals and ceremonies in honor of Rome’s patron deity, Jupiter. This god was often depicted as a thundering god but gradually became associated with sea gods as Rome’s empire spread over the Mediterranean.
The gods and goddesses of the Mediterranean were also worshipped by Romans, albeit in a less monotheistic form than the official state religion. Local gods and goddesses, such as those from the Greek and Egyptian pantheons, were incorporated into Roman culture, adding new dimensions and rituals to the country’s faith.
The Mediterranean peoples also brought their own set of religious customs, beliefs and practices to the empire. This variety in faith traditions added to the already eclectic mix of beliefs in the Roman Empire and helped to solidify the notion of inclusivity in Roman society.
Geographic influence
The Mediterranean was also of great importance for its geography. Rome’s northern border was the Alps mountain range, which was an effective natural border from any barbarian invasions from the North. The Mediterranean Sea also provided a wide range of natural resources, such as fish, olives, salt, and timber, making Rome almost self-sufficient.
Due to its close proximity to other civilizations, the Mediterranean was also a great source of new ideas and knowledge which the Romans could use to further their legacy. This resulted in a more sophisticated society and more refined art, architecture, and literature.
The Mediterranean Sea was a safe haven for refugees and traders alike, offering them a sanctuary and allowing them to connect with one another. This diversity of cultures and views enhanced the Roman Empire, providing a safe and prosperous location for many to live in and enjoy.
