Ancient Civilizations: Egypt, Greece, and Rome
Ancient Civilizations: Egypt and Greece
Ancient Egypt: Geography and Power
Egypt is divided into two major regions:
- Lower Egypt: A wide valley formed by the Nile Delta.
- Upper Egypt: A barren land where life is only visible in the narrow area irrigated by the river.
The Power of the Pharaoh
The Pharaoh held absolute power. He was the guarantor of justice and order, and the chief of the army.
Egyptian Tombs and Burial Structures
The first Egyptian tombs were simple, low, rectangular constructions known as the Mastaba. Following the Mastaba, the great Pyramids were developed. Outstanding examples include the Pyramids of Khufu (Cheops), Khafre (Kefren), and Menkaure.
Hypogea
Hypogea were large burial chambers dug below ground and decorated with great luxury.
Ancient Greece: Government and City-States
Oligarchy and Greek Civilization
An Oligarchic Government is a form of government in which power is exercised by an economically powerful minority.
Greek civilization originated in the Balkan Peninsula, the Aegean coasts, and the surrounding islands.
The Polis (City-State)
The Polis had two main parts:
- The Lower City: Contained homes, shops, and public buildings located around a large square, the Agora.
- The Acropolis: A high, fortified citadel where citizens could take refuge in case of danger. It housed the principal religious buildings.
Key Terms
- Acropolis: A high, fortified city area.
- Democracy: A city ruled by the people.
Ancient Rome: Monarchy, Society, and Expansion
The Roman Monarchy
During the time of the Monarchy, the King held the highest powers: he administered justice, commanded the army, and served as the Pontifex Maximus (Chief Priest).
Roman Social Classes
- Patricians: A minority of aristocratic families who considered themselves descendants of the founders of Rome. They were grouped into families with common ancestors.
- Plebeians (Commoners): The largest group, formed by farmers, artisans, and merchants. They initially had no territorial property or political rights.
The Tribune
The Tribune of the Plebs defended the interests of the commoners.
Roman Expansion and Crisis
Between 500 and 250 BCE, Rome took control of the Italian peninsula. From 264 to 146 BCE, Rome faced Carthage in the Punic Wars. Between the 2nd century BCE and the 1st century CE, Romans conquered Greece and the Western Mediterranean.
Social conflicts and violent civil wars marked the 1st century BCE in Rome. The crisis led the Senate and magistrates to entrust power to military leaders. The clash between these generals resulted in violent civil wars. In 48 BCE, Julius Caesar was proclaimed perpetual dictator and seized maximum power. Supporters of the Republic, primarily Patricians who saw their powers compromised, assassinated Caesar at the doors of the Roman Senate in 44 BCE.
The Colosseum
The Colosseum is a typical Roman structure, characterized by its round shape. It functioned as an amphitheater where slaves fought for life or death, and the audience enjoyed the spectacle. The fate of the combatants was often decided by the Emperor.