Here’s What It Was Like For Prisoners In Ancient Rome
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 …
The Real Reason Pants Were Objectionable In The Roman Empire
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 …
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 …
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. …
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 …
The Life of a Freed Gladiator
In the world of ancient Rome, gladiators held a unique place in society. Known for their courage and combat skills, these fighters battled for glory and survival in the arena. …
Byzantine Knowledge of Roman History
The people we often call Byzantines referred to themselves as Romans. They believed their rulers were the descendants of Caesar and Augustus. The use of the term “Byzantine Empire” is …
Ancient Roman Customs in Modern Italy
Living in vibrant neighborhoods rich with Italian traditions, many families passed down stories connecting present customs to ancient roots. In Chicago, these traditions came alive during festivals, where statues of …
A Day in the Life of a Roman Emperor
The Roman Empire is often remembered as a time of grandeur and power, especially during its so-called golden age. Augustus Caesar‘s reign is frequently cited as a turning point, a …
What did the Romans Think About Race and Identity?
The Roman Empire was a melting pot of cultures and ethnicities, interacting with various groups through trade, conquest, and cultural exchange. Unlike modern concepts of race, Romans classified others based …
Who Is The Third Roman Empire?
The concept of the “Third Rome” has fascinated historians and scholars for centuries. It refers to the idea that, after the fall of the Western and Eastern Roman Empires, a …
Did Ancient Rome and China Know About Each Other?
In the second century AD, the Roman Empire and the Han Dynasty stood at opposite ends of the Silk Road, connected through trade routes that allowed goods to flow from …
How did Roman Baths work?
For countless Romans, visiting the baths was an essential part of their daily routine, offering a place to relax, socialize, and even conduct business. These lavish facilities drew people from …