Ancient Rome: From Monarchy to the Fall of the Empire

The Monarchy (753-509 BC)

Reality and legend intertwine during this period. Seven kings ascended to the throne, beginning with Romulus and ending with Tarquinius Superbus. Rome conquered Latium and founded the port of Ostia. Servius Tullius implemented the first organization of the population, dividing it into four regional tribes and seven classes based on origin and wealth. The army was divided into tactical units called centuries.

The Republic (509-27 BC)

The king was replaced by two consuls. This era saw significant administrative development, with legislation extending to regulate the rights and duties of citizens. It was a period marked by wars of expansion and conquest, as well as political rivalries. A crucial event was the Punic Wars, a major confrontation between the Romans and Carthaginians. For over eighty years, the Romans waged war against their neighbors. Hannibal's landmark victories challenged Roman dominance, but Scipio Africanus ultimately defeated him. In the 1st century BC, Rome witnessed the intense rivalry between Pompey and Caesar, initially colleagues, who ultimately engaged in a civil war. Julius Caesar's victory led to his rise to power. An excellent soldier and politician, Caesar's reign was cut short by assassination. Years later, Octavian Augustus emerged, ushering Rome into a new era: the Empire.

The Empire (27 BC - 476 AD)

The Empire endured for five centuries. All power rested with the emperor, who was advised by capable political and military figures. The Empire's progress can be divided into five stages, marked by different dynasties:

The Expansion of the Empire

Initially, Rome experienced spectacular expansion, reaching its peak during the reign of Emperor Trajan.

The Decline and Division

A gradual decline began during Hadrian's reign and continued until the time of the Severan dynasty. This was followed by a division into four areas, marking the beginning of the end. The Empire was eventually partitioned into two parts: the Western Roman Empire and the Eastern Roman Empire (Byzantine Empire).

The Fall of the Empire

The Western Roman Empire, with its capital in Rome, fell in 476 AD due to barbarian invasions. The Eastern Roman Empire (Byzantine Empire) persisted until 1453, when it was conquered by the Ottoman Turks.