The Founding of RomeChapter 12 Lesson 1

ObjectivesExplain how Rome was founded

Describe the advantages of Rome’s location

VocabularyArable – land that is good for

crowing crops

Forum – public square in ancient Roman cities where the Romans exchanged goods and ideas

Confederation – group of governments joined together for a common purpose

Settling in Seven HillsThe Latins

settled on the seven hills south of the Tiber River in about 1,000 BC

The hills provided protection from attack, resources for building, and land for farming

A Cultural MixThe Etruscans and

the Greeks, both of whom had settlements on the Italian Peninsula, influenced the Romans

The Romans adopted and adapted aspects of Etruscan and Greek cultures, including their architecture, religion, and alphabet

The City of RomeRome’s

location along the Tiber River was ideal for communication and trade

Roman legends such as that of Romulus and Remus explain Rome’s beginning

Etruscan RuleEtruscans became the leaders of

Rome in about 616 BC and built much of early Rome

The Etruscans were experienced at governing large areas, which helped them organize and govern Rome’s territory

SummaryLatins founded the city of Rome in about

750 BC.Legend says that the twins Romulus and

Remus founded the cityAccording to history, Rome began as small

villages, which joined together and grewThe city’s location was ideal for farming

and was easy to defend. The neighboring cultures of the Etruscans

and the Greeks greatly influenced early Roman culture

In time, Etruscan kings ruled over the Romans

Reading Check QuestionsWhat attracted the Latins to the hills near the

Tiber River?◦ Arable land, a long growing season, protection,

wood, and stones

What two cultures influenced the Romans?◦ Etruscan culture and Greek culture

Who was the first legendary ruler of Rome?◦ Romulus

What influence did the Etruscan kings have on the development of Rome?◦ They completed building projects and expanded and

organized Rome.