Journey to

Roman Republic

The Roman Republic was a three-part government made up of the Magistrates, the Senate, and the Assemblies. They actually represent the three types of ruling powers around the world: monarchy (think King or Queen), oligarchy (a small group rules), and democracy (closest to Canada).

So, in a sense, the people of Rome had some say in the government. That’s good. However, not so good, were some of the actions of the ruling class, which was a life position - Not always so nice.

6.7.4 From Republic to Empire!

BACK we go to Julius Caesar to learn how he AND Augustus helped take little ‘ol Rome from a republic to an EMPIRE! Now, if you need to, you can go back two pages and re-read all the info about Julius. Remember that he was a military leader and DICTATOR! And he met a creepy end when he was killed by his enemies in the Senate! YIKES! What a mess that created! Well, Caesar’s adopted son, Octavian was pretty upset, so he set off and hunted down the assassins. And he kept fighting. And fighting. After 14 years of fighting he had managed to become the leader of the Roman world – Wow! In 27 B.C. the Senate gave him the title of Augustus, which meant “great and holy one” (no ego issues there!) and he reigned for over 40 years – nicely, kinda. In fact, his period of reign became known as Pax Romana, “Roman peace.” Cool huh?! The site below will tell a little more about Augustus, just scroll down till you see his name.

Follow Augustus to the next

Roman conquest!

Follow Augustus to the next

Roman conquest!

6.7.5 Jews vs Romans

Herod just scares me,

let’s get out of here!

Herod just scares me,

let’s get out of here!

Jerusalem was the homeland of the Jewish people, but by 63 B.C. the Romans also controlled that region, too. No surprise that many Jews totally resented Roman rule. In fact, they believed that God would send a *messiah to drive out these intruders. However, there were some Jews who accepted the Roman ruler, Herod in 37 B.C. These differences between the Jews caused some serious conflicts. Some were drawn to the “in” crowd - the Pharisees, who were educated and honored the Torah and the rabbis. Others retreated to caves where they could be left alone. Bottom line, they weren’t united. Check out the website below to view King Herod’s kingdom:

*messiah: anointed leader

http://phschool.com/webcodes10/index.cfm?wcprefix=mwd&wcsuffix=6191&fuseaction=home.gotoWebCode&x=0&y=0

6.7.6 & .7 ChristianityAmerica proudly considers itself a multi-ethnic nation but did you know it was founded on Christian principles? Did you know this faith has its origins in the Jewish religion? Jews believed God would send a messiah, and when Jesus began his ministry many believed it was him. Sadly, leaders in Judea feared he or his followers might cause problems. He had angered some with his criticism of the Pharisees, who spent more time looking “religious” than being compassionate and doing what was right. Read through the website below, then make notes on your webquest page that reflect the basic tenets of this faith of our Fathers.

http://uri.org/kids/world_chri_basi.htmThe story of Jesus’ birth is celebrated at Christmas. Did you know the Greek word for messiah is “Christ?” That is why disciples of Jesus came to be called Christians and a religion based on the teachings of Jesus is called Christianity.

The Bible contains the Hebrew scriptures we know as the Old Testament and the collection of writing from early Christians, including the four Gospels, which tell of the life and death of Jesus. It is called the New Testament. Here are some of Jesus’ amazing quotes: http://www.bible-guide-online.com/jesus-quotes-top-ten.html

The cross represents Jesus’ sacrifice for people’s sins. It is the primary symbol of Christianity. Jesus was crucified on a cross.

For three years Jesus taught from town to town, telling people, “I and the Father are one.” Many of his teachings concern ethical issues and how to treat people. He believed, as the Jews did, in the resurrection. He taught that all people are equal in God’s eyes and he often used parables to explain important truths.

“Do you recognize the symbol above? Sure, it’s the Nike® sign! In Greek mythology Nike was the goddess of victory. The Romans adopted her into their worship and gave her the Latin name Victoria (get it – victory!). Well, when Paul, a disciple of Jesus, was teaching about him to the Greco-Roman world, he knew how much they loved victory, so when he expressed Christian truth he used words and phrases that were related to winning. I Corinthians 9:24-27 even refers to the Olympic games!”

6.7.8 Roman Legacies

http://rome.mrdonn.org/achievements.html

We have much to thank the Roman culture for providing us – their legacies live on. In fact, builders to this day still use materials invented by the Romans! And their system of roads was pretty amazing, too! Hopefully, as you go through life you’ll make time for museums and art history, so you can learn more about the people and culture of ancient Rome. Below is the very last website you need to go to for this history review. You’ll find just some of the many Roman accomplishments – ENJOY!

Good Job!

Good Job!

I love this stuff!

I love this stuff!