General

CALIGULA: HISTORICAL BACKGROUND

Barbara F. McManus, The College of New Rochelle...

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Lead and the Fall of Rome: A Bibliography

Since the nineteenth century, there have been sporadic suggestions that the large-scale use of lead in antiquity contributed to the fall of Rome through heavy-metal poisoning....

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Hannibal The African Warrior

In 218 B.C., Hannibal began the most daring military move in history, that of invading Rome by way of the Alps. But why did this African military genius decide to war against Rome? Before Hannibal's birth, the Romans ruled Italy, and the Carthaginians ruled Carthage in North Africa. The Carthaginians also ruled the Mediterranean Islands of Cors...

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Roman Clothing

Ancient Roman clothing was a symbol of status, wealth, and power. The attire of the ancient Romans was influenced by their social status, gender, and occasion. Both men and women wore tunics, which were loose-fitting garments made of wool or linen. The length and quality of the tunic varied depending on the individual's standing in society. Men ty...

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Diotima: Glossary of Roman Clothing

Diotima: Glossary of Roman Clothing Accoutrements: Additional items of clothing or accessories. Bulla: A protective amulet worn by children. Chiton: A simple tunic worn by men and women. Fibula: A decorative pin used to fasten clothing. Palla: A long, rectangular piece of cloth worn as a shawl or cloak. Stola: A long, pleated dress worn by Ro...

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The Father of the Household Adapts His Role to Politics

Throughout history, the role of the father in a household has been seen as one of provider, protector, and decision-maker. However, as times change and societal structures evolve, the father's role has adapted to encompass a wider range of responsibilities, including involvement in politics. Today, we see fathers taking on active roles in politica...

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School Time and Play Time for Roman Children

Most Roman kids did not go to school. Like their parents, they worked in the fields hoeing and weeding and plowing as soon as they were old enough. Their parents needed them to work, to get enough to eat. They did not learn to read or write or do math....

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History House: Stories: Circus Maximus-Rome's Astrodome

The races were on, a type of spectacle which has never had the slightest attraction for me. I can find nothing new or different in them: once seen is enough, so it surprises me all the more that so many thousands of adult men should have such a childish passion for watching galloping horses and drivers standing in chariots, over and over again.... ...

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Parts of a Roman Warship

A Roman warship, also known as a "navis longa" or "long ship," was a formidable vessel designed for naval warfare. These ships were built with specific parts that contributed to their speed, agility, and combat effectiveness. One crucial part of a Roman warship was the "rostrum" or ram located at the front of the ship. The rostrum was a reinforced...

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The Roman Army - A legionary's Basic Equipment

The Roman Army was one of the most formidable military forces in ancient history, and a legionary's basic equipment played a crucial role in their success on the battlefield. One of the most iconic pieces of a Roman legionary's equipment was the lorica segmentata, a type of segmented armor that provided excellent protection while allowing for flex...

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