The Scythian Empire was once a powerful force that stretched across large parts of Eurasia. Known for their skill in warfare, especially on horseback, the Scythians were fierce fighters who …
The decline of the Roman Empire has long attracted historians, with Edward Gibbon considering it a straightforward process driven by external pressures. One key aspect he and others point out …
Trade between the Mediterranean and the East played a key role in the growth and wealth of early empires. Egypt, positioned between regions, became a major link for goods moving …
During the reign of Marcus Aurelius, the Roman Empire faced challenges on many fronts. The emperor led his armies across the Danube to battle fierce tribes, dealing with both war …
Cannabis has a long and interesting history, but most people do not know much about how it was used in ancient Rome. The evidence that survives comes mainly from a …
During the shift from the Roman Republic to the Empire, the Roman military went through many important changes. After the civil wars and the rise of Augustus, the Roman army …
The Roman Empire rose to be one of the most successful ancient civilizations. While many believe that warfare and taxes alone fueled this growth, the reality was more complex. As …
After their victory over Carthage, the Romans shifted their focus to the powerful kingdoms that grew from Alexander the Great’s empire. These new challenges saw Roman legions face off against …
During the First Punic War, Rome and Carthage clashed in a massive naval battle near Ecnomus. With hundreds of warships and almost 300,000 men involved, this fight stands out as …
When the Romans encountered the people of Northern Europe, they were often surprised by their physical appearance. Stories from ancient times describe Gauls, Germans, and Britons as particularly tall and …
In a dramatic episode of Roman history, the young consul Cicero faced a grave challenge with the flawed Catalinarian conspiracy. As the Senate debated how to punish those who plotted …
Throughout history, Rome had a complex and evolving relationship with punishment and imprisonment. In the early days, prisons as we understand them today didn’t exist. People who broke the law …
In ancient Rome, wearing trousers was not only unfashionable but forbidden by law. This cultural stance made significant statements about social norms and perceptions at the time. Roman attire mainly …
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 …
