Taxes and Tariffs in Ancient Rome
The Roman Empire, known for its vast reach and impressive organization, had a tax system that left much to be desired by modern standards. While citizens in Rome itself enjoyed …
Plutarch: Life, Legacy, and the Lasting Power of His Parallel Lives
Plutarch is even today one of the most influential voices from antiquity, whose work has passed the test of time for nearly two millennia. Best known for Parallel Lives and …
Rise and Fall of the Roman Republic – End of the Triumvirate
Meeting in Lucca While Caesar was in Gaul, the situation in Rome was not calming down at all. Pompey was given the task of supplying the city with grain, and …
Rise and Fall of the Roman Republic – The Civil War
The Civil War – Caesar in Italy The civil war had begun, and Pompey was in Rome. The consuls authorized Pompey to take command of the two legions stationed in …
Could Potatoes have Saved the Roman Empire?
Imagine a world where the potato, a nutritious and adaptable crop, reached the Roman Empire centuries earlier. This thought experiment opens a fascinating discussion. Potatoes originated in South America and …
What Did the Romans Think the Future Would Be Like?
Imagining the future has always played a big role in how people think about our world. Ancient thinkers like the philosopher Seneca had their own ideas about what might happen. …
The Life Expectancy of a Roman Emperor
In the world of Roman emperors, life was full of both monumental power and grave dangers. Augustus, the first emperor, spent his last days quietly before passing away as he …
Finding Love in Ancient Rome
People in Ancient Rome often find themselves swept up in the whirlwind of romance. This occasion, filled with chocolates and flowers, has roots in ancient traditions tied to the idea …
How “Good” Were Rome’s Five Good Emperors?
Between 98 and 180 A.D., the Roman Empire reached its pinnacle under the leadership of five renowned emperors: Nerva, Trajan, Hadrian, Antoninus Pius, and Marcus Aurelius. These leaders, often called …
Rise and Fall of the Roman Republic – Caesar in Gaul
Gaul Gaul is an ancient geographical area that stretched from the Atlantic Ocean in the west to the Rhine River in the east, while it was bordered in the north …
Rise and Fall of the Roman Republic – Civil War Era – Triumvirate
Triumvirate – Reasons For the Alliance Gnaeus Pompey returned from the East as a victor over Mithridates and at that time was the most influential person in Rome. However, as …
What If Everything Went PERFECT For Rome?
Imagining an alternate Roman timeline is an intriguing exercise. In this hypothetical scenario, we explore how a perfect series of events could have influenced Rome’s growth and longevity. The goal …
How the Roman Army built Bridges and Forts
Throughout history, Roman military engineers have been noted for their exceptional expertise and unique role within the Roman army. Unlike typical soldiers, these professionals were relieved of regular duties to …
Unsolved Mysteries about the Colosseum
The Colosseum, one of the most iconic landmarks of ancient Rome, has captivated the world for centuries. Its grandeur and history are legendary, yet many mysteries still surround this remarkable …