TED-Ed: From slave to rebel gladiator: The life of Spartacus - Fiona Radford

Spartacus, a Thracian slave, led a rebellion against Rome after escaping from a gladiator school. His clever tactics and inspiring leadership attracted a large following, turning a group of slaves into a formidable force. Despite initial victories, internal conflicts and strategic errors led to their downfall. Crassus eventually defeated Spartacus, but his legacy as a symbol of freedom endures.

What was Spartacus's status before he became a gladiator?

• A Thracian slave

• A Roman general

• A Greek philosopher

• A Roman senator

How did Spartacus and his fellow slaves escape from the gladiator school?

• By bribing the guards

• By digging a tunnel

• By seizing kitchen knives and fighting their way out

• By disguising themselves as Roman soldiers

What tactic did Spartacus use to ambush the Roman forces led by Varinius?

• He bribed Roman soldiers to switch sides

• He used enemy corpses as decoy guards

• He poisoned the Roman water supply

• He set fire to the Roman camp

What was the main reason for the internal disagreements within Spartacus's army?

• Disputes over leadership

• Differences in opinion on whether to march on Rome or seek freedom beyond its borders

• Lack of food and resources

• Cultural differences among the rebels

Who assumed control of the Roman forces against Spartacus in the final stages of the rebellion?

• Cicero

• Julius Caesar

• Marcus Licinius Crassus

• Pompey the Great

What was the fate of Spartacus's army after their final stand?

• They were defeated and many were crucified along the Appian Way

• They formed a new settlement in southern Italy

• They successfully escaped to the Alps

• They were granted freedom by the Roman Senate

What lasting legacy did Spartacus leave behind?

• He founded a new Roman city

• He is remembered as a symbol of freedom and resistance

• He was forgotten in history

• He became a Roman emperor