Chapters 8 and 9 REVIEW

What are the traits of a government which is a republic?

Answer explanation

A republic is a form of government in which the leader is not a king or a queen. The leader is someone put into office by citizens with the right to vote. Citizens have the power in a republic.

Who was Cincinnatus and why was he important to Roman history?

Answer explanation

Cincinnatus was a farmer. He was a loyal and devoted citizen with a strong sense of civic duty. When a powerful enemy had surrounded a Roman army, officials asked Cincinnatus to lead them through this crisis as a dictator, one with complete control over the society. Cincinnatus agreed and he ruled for a little over two weeks. Even though they wanted him to continue to rule as dictator, he refused and returned to his farm. He was a role model for George Washington who was also a farmer asked to lead an army during a time of crisis.

What government concepts are similar between ancient Rome and present-day United States?

Answer explanation

Ancient Rome's government and the United States both believe that a republic is the best form of government. A republic works best if citizens do their civic duty, participate in the government, and work to make the society better. All people are equal under the law (Rule of Law). Judges are expected to decide cases fairly and a person is innocent until proven guilty. The United States believes that a republic made up of equal citizens is the best form of government.

What were the benefits of Rome's location?

Answer explanation

Rome was built on the Tiber River which provided a fresh source of water. It was 15 miles upstream making it difficult to attack by sea. Rome was also built on seven hills making it easy to defend against invaders. The Apennines and Alps formed natural barriers that protected Rome from invasion. Rome was close to sources of raw materials. Rome was in the middle of the Mediterranean on a peninsula, so it was a stopping place for travelers and traders.

Describe the problems with the Roman economy and currency.

Answer explanation

People started paying fewer taxes, so less money was coming into the government. The government started putting less gold in its coins to save money. Once people realized that the money was worth less value, prices increased (inflation). People stopped using money and started bartering instead.

to reject

• barter

• reform

• veto

• inflation

a smaller unit of the Roman army made up of about 6,000 soldiers

• legion

• triumvirate

• forum

• rhetoric

name for the father as head of the household in ancient Rome

• plebeian

• patrician

• praetor

• paterfamilias

one of the top two government officials in ancient Rome

• dictator

• consul

• patrician

• gladiator

long era of peace and safety in the Roman Empire

• legion

• latifundia

• Pax Romana

• triumvirate