History Detective: Rise of the Republic

The fact that we have to consider legends when trying to uncover the beginning of Rome tells us:

• Romans weren't good historians

• we don't always know exactly what happened in the past

• it is impossible to always trust historians

• Latins didn't keep good records.

The city of Rome began as a meeting place.

• True

• False

Etruscans built streets that formed circles.

• True

• False

Latins built Rome on high ground.

• True

• False

In a republic, voters select those who lead them?

• True

• False

Which of the following places would be the safest place for an ancient Latin to live:

• along a river

• next to the Mediterranean Sea

• a flat spot of ground

• a site chosen for security and business

Based on the system of government the Latins established, what can you infer about what they thought of leaders?

• Kings are basically good

• Leaders should not be elected

• A leader should have great power.

• A leader's power must be controlled.

Based on this lesson, what about Rome's founding is found in legends and written history?

• Rome was built by barbarians.

• Romulus was the first king

• Roman architecture was beautiful

• its first residents were killed by a plague.

Which answer shows the events in chronological order?

a. Roman Republic founded

b. Etruscans rule Latins

c. Latins settle Rome

d. Rome's seven hills are surrounded by walls

• a, b, c, d

• c, b, d, a

• c, a, b, d

• b, c, d, a

The history of the founding of Rome:

• is sometimes explained by stories

• was unknown until recently

• was written by the Etruscans

• written by Romulus and Remus.